Itchy armpits can certainly cause a person to feel uncomfortable, even to interfere with concentration in carrying out daily activities. Although generally this problem can be solved simply, some causes of itchy armpits need to be taken seriously.
Itchy armpits are easy to happen because the armpit is one of the warmest and most moist areas of the body. Armpit itching is generally caused by a lack of cleanliness of the armpits and usually subsides on its own.
However, some conditions such as fungal or bacterial infections can also trigger itchy armpits and require treatment with medication. In addition to itching, this condition can cause other symptoms, such as rashes and swelling.
Possible Causes of Itchy Armpit
If you often experience itchy armpits, it's a good idea to consult a dermatologist because the cause of itchy armpits is not always simple and needs to be examined carefully. The following are some conditions that can cause itchy armpits:
1. Atopic dermatitis or eczema
Eczema is most often found in skin folds, such as the armpits. Eczema in the armpits is characterized by the appearance of itching, redness, and dry or crusty underarm skin.
2. Seborrheic dermatitis
Itchy armpits can also be caused by seborrheic dermatitis. This condition is usually triggered by excess skin oil production. In addition, seborrheic dermatitis can also be caused by a combination of various factors, such as dry and cold air, health problems and the use of certain drugs, and stress.
Seborrheic dermatitis in the armpits is not only characterized by the appearance of itching, but also causes scaly armpit skin, the appearance of white or yellow flakes like dandruff, to redness of the skin.
3. Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis can also be a cause of itchy armpits. This condition is usually triggered by direct armpit skin contact with certain materials, causing itchy, red, blistered, dry, and cracked skin.
Contact dermatitis in the armpits can be caused by the use of lotions, deodorants, perfumes, certain materials from the clothes worn, to the use of detergents used to wash clothes.
4. Fungal Infection
Itchy armpits can be caused by candidiasis or a yeast infection. In addition to triggering itching, this condition can also cause a red rash and swelling.
A person's risk of experiencing itchy armpits due to a yeast infection can increase if the person does not maintain hygiene, often wears tight clothing, or is active in hot weather.
5. Psoriasis
Itchy armpits can also be caused by psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can cause skin complaints. This autoimmune disease is characterized by a reddish thickening of the skin with clean white scales that peel easily.
6. Intertrigo
Intertrigo is characterized by a rash on the folds of the body caused by inflammation, either due to infection or irritation. Armpit intertrigo can cause armpit itching, redness, and soreness.
This condition can happen to anyone. However, people who are obese, have diabetes, and smoke, are more at risk for developing intertrigo, and armpit intertrigo is no exception.
7. Hidradenitis supppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa can be the cause of itchy armpits. In addition to triggering itching, this condition also causes lumps to appear where armpit hair grows. These bumps, which are similar to boils and blackheads, can disappear, burst or ooze pus.
How to Relieve and Overcome Itchy Armpits
Although very uncomfortable, itchy armpits should not be scratched because it can trigger infection. Instead of scratching it, it's better to do the following actions:
- Gently and gently pat or pinch the itchy area, to reduce the unbearable itching.
- Compress the itchy armpit with a cold compress, about 5-10 minutes or until the itching subsides.
- Take a shower using warm water.
- Apply an unscented moisturizer or over-the-counter anti-itch cream.
- Avoid shaving the armpit area as long as there are complaints of itchy armpits, unless advised by a doctor.
If this method has been done but the itchy armpits are still felt or do not subside, consult your condition to the doctor. The doctor will examine and treat your complaints according to the cause of itchy armpits.
In the case of itchy armpits caused by allergies, irritation to certain ingredients, you will be advised to avoid using these itchy triggers. In addition, you will also be given an anti-inflammatory and anti-itch cream.
In cases of itchy armpits caused by fungal or bacterial infections, antifungal ointments or antibiotics will be given, according to the cause. However, if the infection is severe, oral medication can also be given.
For itchy armpits caused by psoriasis, a topical cream containing salicylic acid or steroids may be prescribed by your doctor. Meanwhile, for cases of itchy armpits caused by hidradenitis suppurativa, corticosteroid creams and other supporting drugs, such as ibuprofen and antibiotics, may be given by a doctor.
Armpit itching will generally subside on its own. However, if the itchy armpits you experience frequently recur or do not improve after treatment or using over-the-counter anti-itch creams, consult your doctor.