Do you also have breast eczema? Let's find out exactly what it is!

Do your breasts sometimes get red and itchy? Do they break out like little blisters, dry out, and feel like they're peeling? It can be really annoying and sometimes embarrassing. But the most important thing you need to know is that you're not alone. This condition is common and affects many people. Today, we're going to talk about breast eczema.

Simply put, what is breast eczema?

Breast eczema is a form of a condition medically known as ``Atopic Dermatitis.'' This is when your skin becomes dry, flaky, itchy, and sometimes blistered. This eczema can occur anywhere on your breasts.

• The dark area around the nipple (areola)
• Between the two breasts
• Under the breast
• On the sides of the breasts
• Anywhere else on the chest

Simply put, when we get eczema, our skin's barrier function is damaged. Think of our skin as a wall, with the mortar that holds the bricks together. When we get eczema, this mortar layer weakens. Our skin becomes very sensitive, dries out quickly, and is more susceptible to infections.

The most important question: Is this eczema? Or is it cancer?

This question is a concern for many people. Because there is a very rare type of breast cancer that has symptoms that are very similar to breast cancer. We call it Paget's disease of the breast . Since the symptoms of both these diseases are similar, sometimes there can be misunderstandings.

Common symptoms are:

• Itching, inflammation, or discoloration of the nipple and surrounding area.
• Peeling, crusting, or thickening of the skin.
• Flattening or inverted nipple.
• Yellow or bloody discharge from the nipple.

It's understandable to feel scared when you see these symptoms. However, there are clear differences between the two diseases. If you know these differences, you can avoid unnecessary fear. Let's see what those differences are.

Typically, if Paget's disease is suspected , the doctor may recommend tests such as:

• Breast exam
• Mammogram test
• Ultrasound scan
• MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
• Taking a small piece of skin for examination (Biopsy)

Who is more likely to develop this eczema condition?

Anyone with breasts can develop this condition, but some people are at a slightly higher risk.

• If you or someone in your family has eczema .
• If you have asthma .
• If you have environmental allergies to things like dust and pollen.
• If you have hay fever/allergic rhinitis, which causes frequent runny nose and sneezing.

Eczema is very common. Between 2% and 10% of adults worldwide have eczema. So it's normal for it to appear on your breasts.

Why do we get this breast eczema?

There is no single reason for this. It is a combination of several reasons.

1. Function of the immune system (Immune System)

A person with eczema has an overreaction to even the smallest things (like a type of soap or a type of fabric). This overreaction causes inflammation and redness of the skin.

2. Genetics

If someone in your family has eczema, asthma, or hay fever, you're more likely to develop them. Eczema can also be caused by changes in genes that control a protein that helps keep the skin healthy.

3. Environmental influences (Environment)

Many things in our environment can be harmful to the skin.

• Some types of harsh soap
• Tobacco smoke, air pollution
• Fabrics such as wool
• Some types of coatings
• Dry climate (dries out the skin)
• Hot, sweaty weather (sweating can increase itching)

Imagine you wore a new bra, or used a new type of soap. If you get a rash like this after wearing it, it could be an allergy to that new thing. We call it ``Contact Dermatitis``.

4. Stress

You might be surprised to hear this. Yes, your stress can cause eczema or worsen existing eczema. Things like excessive anxiety and stress directly affect skin health.

5. Nursing mothers

Breastfeeding mothers can also develop eczema around the nipples. This condition can be caused by constant moisture and friction.

What can we do to control this?

If the condition is caused by genetic factors, it may be difficult to completely cure it. However, there are many things we can do to manage the symptoms and live a normal life. Our goal should be to reduce itching and discomfort, prevent infections, and control recurrence.

Treatments you can do at home

• Keep your skin moisturized: Apply a good moisturizer several times a day. Especially after bathing, rubbing it on your skin helps to lock in moisture. A thicker cream or ointment is better than a more liquid lotion.
• Be careful when bathing: Bathe in lukewarm water, not hot water. Do not bathe for more than 10-15 minutes.
• Use mild soaps: Choose mild soaps or body washes that are free of fragrances, dyes, or alcohol. Products that say "fragrance-free," "hypoallergenic," or "for sensitive skin" are good choices.
• Take care of your clothes: Wear bras and clothes made of fabrics like cotton that absorb sweat and allow your skin to breathe. Fabrics like wool and silk can cause allergies in some people. Wash new clothes before wearing them.
• Don't scratch!: This is the hardest thing to do. But the more you scratch, the worse the rash gets, and the more likely it is to break the skin and become infected. If you can't stand the itching, try rubbing the area gently or applying a cold, damp cloth.
• Reduce stress: Manage stress through things like meditation, yoga, exercise, and engaging in a favorite hobby.

Medical treatment

When you see your doctor, he will assess your condition and prescribe appropriate treatment.

• Hydrocortisone cream: Helps reduce itching and redness. These can be purchased at pharmacies, but it is safest to use them under medical advice.
• Prescription steroid creams: If your eczema is more severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger steroid creams, pills, or injections.
• Antihistamines: If you are unable to sleep at night due to itching, these types of pills can reduce itching.
• Other treatments: Sometimes, other newer medications, such as Topical Immunomodulators (TIMs) or light therapy, may be recommended.

Does food and drink affect this?

There is still no clear conclusion about the relationship between eczema and food. However, if you have a food allergy, your eczema may worsen when you eat that food. For example, some people are allergic to things like peanuts, milk, eggs, sugar, and alcohol. Be a little careful about what you eat. If you feel like your eczema worsens after eating a certain food, that food may be bad for you. Talk to your doctor about it.

Do I need to see a doctor?

Yes. You should definitely see a doctor in the following cases.

• If this is the first time you have experienced these symptoms.
• If the rash is only on one breast .
• If your nipple has a change in shape , indentation, or soreness.
• If there is yellow, bloody, or other fluid coming from the nipple.
• If after a week or two of home care, there is no improvement or the condition worsens.
• If the skin is broken, oozing yellow fluid, or there is pain (these could be signs of an infection).

It is very important for your peace of mind to check these things carefully and confirm whether you have a normal eczema condition or something else.

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