Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes A Itchy And Burning Rash Under The Armpits?
Brief Answer:
Most likely fungal infection
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
The arm pit is not an uncommon place for a fungal infection like ring worm or yeast. This is similar to jock itch. Treatment is to start with an antifungal cream which you can buy at a drug store. Wear cotton or other natural fiber cloth that is loose fitting. Wash daily with warm water and fragrance free soap and consider blow drying the area dry with a hair dryer (but be careful not to burn your skin with it!). Also wash and blow dry anytime you have gotten particularly sweaty. Stop using deodorant for now, except when you absolutely have to. And when at home, put a thick cloth in your armpit to keep the skin off of each other. Avoid alcohol (drinking) and excess sugar for now as well.
It could also be a sensitivity reaction to a new deodorant or soap, particularly those with fragrance. If that is the situation, discontinue the product and consider using a topical corticosteroid cream until it resolves.
These are the most common causes but there can be other causes as well - including bacterial infections and shingles.
I hope this information helps. If, after trying the above suggestions, it doesn't help or is getting worse, go in to see your doctor.
Most likely fungal infection
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
The arm pit is not an uncommon place for a fungal infection like ring worm or yeast. This is similar to jock itch. Treatment is to start with an antifungal cream which you can buy at a drug store. Wear cotton or other natural fiber cloth that is loose fitting. Wash daily with warm water and fragrance free soap and consider blow drying the area dry with a hair dryer (but be careful not to burn your skin with it!). Also wash and blow dry anytime you have gotten particularly sweaty. Stop using deodorant for now, except when you absolutely have to. And when at home, put a thick cloth in your armpit to keep the skin off of each other. Avoid alcohol (drinking) and excess sugar for now as well.
It could also be a sensitivity reaction to a new deodorant or soap, particularly those with fragrance. If that is the situation, discontinue the product and consider using a topical corticosteroid cream until it resolves.
These are the most common causes but there can be other causes as well - including bacterial infections and shingles.
I hope this information helps. If, after trying the above suggestions, it doesn't help or is getting worse, go in to see your doctor.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
