By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2more
Medically reviewed byDr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: May 16, 2024
Click to rate this article!
[Total: 3 Avg: 2.7]
Table of Contents
Key Highlights:
- Itchy armpits can be caused by allergies, infections, skin conditions, and cancer.
- Allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, and heat rash are common benign causes.
- Lymphoma and inflammatory breast cancer may present with itching underarms.
- Medical therapy include OTC medications, prescription medications, and home remedies.
- Measures to reduce risk include focus on gentle skin care, proper clothing choices, and good hygiene.
Introduction
Itchy armpits can feel really annoying. But what makes armpits itch? In this article, we will discuss the many causes of itchy armpits- allergies, infections, and even rare cases of cancer. We’ll also delve into management options, home remedies, and when you should see a doctor. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.
Causes of Itchy Armpits
Before diving into the causes of itchy armpits, let’s grasp the potential factors contributing to this annoyance. Allergies, infections, skin conditions, and certain cancers can all give rise to itching. In this section, we will discuss these causes, revealing multiple conditions that could cause underarm itch.
1. Allergic or Contact Dermatitis
You could have allergic or contact dermatitis. It’s a skin reaction where allergens irritate the skin, causing inflammation and itchiness. Common problem-causing items include:
- Fragrances and preservatives in soaps, deodorants, and shampoos.
- Metals like nickel found in jewelry and clothes.
- Latex and rubber in gloves, elastic bands, and bras.
- Laundry detergent and fabric softening chemicals.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a long-term skin condition. It can cause inflammation, redness, and severe itching. Eczema triggers are as follows.
- Dry skin
- Harsh soaps and other irritants
- Stress
- Hot weather and sweating
- Food allergies
- Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
Seborrhoeic dermatitis is quite common. It affects your scalp but can also appear in the armpits. It can cause redness, scales, and itching. Factors that may contribute to seborrheic dermatitis are as follows.
- Stress
- Feeling tired
- Cold or dry weather
- Oily skin
- A weak immune system
2. Yeast Infections and Fungal Infections
A warm, moist environment in the folds of the skin can result in yeast and fungal infections in the armpits. These infections can cause an itchy, red, and scaly rash. Yeast and fungal infections that can affect the armpits are as follows.
- Candida (yeast infection)
- Tinea corporis (ringworm)
- Tinea cruris (jock itch)
3. Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
Hyperhidrosis is when you sweat too much. It can occur in certain areas like the armpits or all over the body. Too much sweat can lead to itchy armpits and raise the risk of bacterial or fungal infections.
4. Heat Rash (Miliaria)
Heat rash, also known as miliaria, is a skin irritation that occurs when sweat gets trapped under the skin. This results in tiny, itchy bumps or blisters. It’s more likely to occur in hot, humid weather.
5. Folliculitis
Folliculitis is inflammation or infection of hair follicles. It can lead to itchy, red, and swollen bumps around the hair follicles. Shaving, skin rubbed by clothing, or too much sweat can cause it.
6. Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis affects the skin folds, including the armpits. It causes smooth, red patches on the skin which may be very itchy. Stress, injuries to the skin, or infections can trigger it.
7. Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition. It creates painful, inflamed lumps and abscesses in areas where skin rubs together. As it worsens, lumps may grow bigger and develop draining sinus tracts.
8. Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans creates dark, velvety patches of skin in the armpits and other areas where the skin folds. Insulin resistance, being overweight, and some hormonal conditions are often linked to it.
9. Intertrigo
Intertrigo is a type of skin inflammation. It occurs when moisture gets trapped between skin folds, causing yeast, fungi, or bacteria growth. The rash is typically red or brown and may cause itching and discomfort.
10. Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection. It causes a round, red, scaly rash with raised borders. It can affect the skin anywhere, including the armpits. Close contact with an infected person or pet, or contaminated surfaces can cause it.
11. Chafing
Chafing happens when skin rubs against skin or clothes. That friction can cause skin redness, rawness, and itchiness in the armpit. Wearing loose clothes and using products that reduce rubbing may help avoid chafing.
Did you know?
- Itchy armpits can be worsened by certain fabrics, such as wool or synthetic materials. source: aad.org
- Itchy armpits can be relieved by using over-the-counter creams or ointments containing hydrocortisone. source: aad.org
- Scratching itchy armpits can lead to further irritation and potential skin damage. source: NCBI
- In rare cases, itchy armpits may be a symptom of an underlying cancer, such as lymphoma. source: cancer.org
Diabetes may have an impact on your skin as well as other body components. Dry skin is a typical symptom for patients with certain types of diabetes. Your armpits may get itchy due to dry skin. An elevated blood sugar (glucose) level amplify amplify the discomfort.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D
Itchy Armpits and the Relation to Lymphomas and Cancer
In a few cases, itchy armpits could be a sign of cancer, specifically lymphoma or inflammatory breast cancer. Keep in mind that these types of cancer-related rashes often come along with extra symptoms.
1. Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer that can affect the lymphatic system. The system is important for how your body fights off illness. Itchy armpits can be a symptom of Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas, as well as T-cell and B-cell skin lymphoma. Lymphoma cells can make your immune system release chemicals that make nerve endings in the skin itch.
2. Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are two types of lymphoma. Itching is more common in Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Itching can happen where there are lymph nodes, like the armpits. Sometimes it can affect the whole body. Along with itching, lymphoma may cause swollen lymph nodes, fever, chills, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
3. T-cell and B-cell Skin Lymphoma
T-cell and B-cell skin lymphoma could come with a rash. The rash can include dry, red skin like psoriasis or eczema, dry and thick skin, itchy patches that can ulcerate, and erythroderma (a red, scaly, and itchy skin condition).
4. Inflammatory Breast Cancer
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare type of breast cancer. It could cause itchy breasts and surrounding areas. Other symptoms include swelling or enlargement of the breast, feeling warmth or heaviness, pain, skin changes on the breast (swelling, thickening, dimpling like an orange peel), redness covering over a third of the breast, and a retracted or inverted nipple. A first diagnosis might mistake cancer for an infection. If antibiotics don’t help or symptoms continue, more tests may be needed to rule out cancer or other conditions.
Recently I came across studies that recommend chamomile as a natural remedy to itching. Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help calm irritated skin and reduce itching. Using products with chamomile or taking chamomile baths might help calm armpit itch and keep your skin healthy.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Remedies and Management Options
How you manage itchy armpits depends on what’s causing them. Management choices can involve over-the-counter medicines, prescription medicines, and home remedies.
- Medical Therapy
You can divide medical management options for itchy armpits into two groups. One is the over-the-counter medicine and the other is the prescription medicine. Both these help alleviate itching, lower inflammation, and manage any core issues.
- Over-The-Counter Medications
Several over-the-counter medicines may help provide relief for itchy armpits. What you use can depend on what’s causing your itchy armpits.
- Steroid creams and ointments help reduce skin inflammation. They help relieve itching and discomfort.
- Oral antihistamines, help lessen itching caused by allergic reactions.
- Topical antifungal creams/gels/sprays help with fungal infections.
- Prescription Medications
In some cases, over-the-counter medicines may not be enough to alleviate itching in the armpits. If your symptoms persist or worsen, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medications, which may be the following.
- More potent topical corticosteroid cream might be prescribed for severe itching or inflammation.
- Antibiotics or antifungal medicines may be prescribed if your healthcare provider suspects an infection.
- Chronic skin conditions like psoriasis could warrant biologic medications that target the immune system.
Also Read: Winter Rash: Understanding Causes and Research-Based Treatments
Home Remedies for Itchy Armpits
Medicines apart, several home remedies may help soothe and manage itchy armpits. These are as follows.
1. Cold Compresses
Applying a cold compress to the affected area may help alleviate itching and reduce inflammation. Use a soft cloth or towel soaked in cold water, or wrap an ice pack in a cloth to protect the skin.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has natural soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve itching and irritated skin. Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the affected area, and allow it to absorb into the skin.
3. Oatmeal Bath
Taking a warm bath with colloidal oatmeal may help relieve itching and soothe irritated skin. Simply add 1 to 2 cups of finely ground oatmeal to warm water and soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate itching, particularly if it’s caused by a fungal infection. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water. Apply it to the affected area with a clean cloth or cotton ball. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that may help manage various skin conditions, including fungal infections and acne. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, like coconut oil or almond oil, and apply topically to the affected area. Be sure to test a small amount of the mixture on a patch of healthy skin before applying it to the armpit area, as tea tree oil can irritate skin in some individuals.
6. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has natural moisturizing and antimicrobial properties that may help soothe itchy, dry skin, and may also help manage minor fungal infections. Gently massage a small amount of coconut oil onto the affected area as needed.
7. Maintaining Good Hygiene
Keeping the armpit area clean, dry, and free from irritants may help avoid and manage itchy armpits. Be sure to shower regularly, especially after exercise, and use gentle, fragrance-free products when possible.
It is always better to consult with your doctor and rule out any major issue before starting home remedies.
Measures to Avoid Itchy Armpits
You can take steps to avoid itchy armpits which are described below.
1. Use of Gentle Skin Care Products
Avoid harsh soaps, deodorants, and other items that could irritate your skin. Use gentle, no-fragrance products instead.
2. Proper Clothing Choices
Choose breathable, loose clothes made of natural fibers like cotton, linen, or bamboo. These fabrics help keep cool and dry. Don’t go for synthetic fabrics, tight clothes, or clothes with hard seams that can chafe the skin.
3. Avoiding Known Allergens
If you know certain items you’re allergic to, try to avoid touching them. These can include metals, fragrances, or chemicals in personal care and cleaning products.
4. Staying Cool and Dry
Heat and moisture can lead to itchy armpits. Keep cool and dry to lower your chance of this. Control sweat with antiperspirant.
5. Regularly Washing and Drying the Armpit Area
Good hygiene helps avoid itchy armpits. Ensure you shower often, take an extra bath after working out, and dry your armpits well after bathing or sweating to avoid moisture buildup.
When to Consult a Doctor?
You should see a healthcare provider in the following situation.
- Self-care and home remedies don’t help or if your itchy armpits get worse.
- You think a serious issue, such as cancer, is causing it. Like you can feel enlarged lymph nodes around the armpit, there is weight loss with no effort, or chronic fatigue.
- You believe an infection or skin condition needs medical therapy.
- Itchy armpits come with other worrying symptoms like swollen patches, discharge, or severe pain.
Your healthcare provider will check your armpit, discuss your symptoms, and suggest management based on what’s causing your itchy armpits.
Conclusion
Many causes, from simple irritation and allergies to grave conditions like lymphomas and inflammatory breast cancer, can lead to itchy armpits. Knowing why your armpits are itchy helps you pick the right management, from medical therapy, home therapies, to steps for reducing the risk. Stay watchful and seek help from a healthcare provider if your itchy armpits keep bothering you despite your efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can itchy armpits be a sign of cancer?
In rare cases, itchy armpits could signal cancer, such as lymphoma or inflammatory breast cancer. Yet, cancer-linked rashes often come with extra symptoms. Seek help from a healthcare provider if you suspect the itching could be due to a serious problem.
What does it mean when your armpits are itchy?
Many things, from allergies, infections, skin issues, to cancer, can cause itchy armpits. Identifying what’s causing the itch guides you to the right management options and steps to reduce risk.
Why do deodorants sometimes cause itchy armpits?
Deodorants can cause allergic reaction or irritant contact dermatitis that can cause itchy armpits. An ingredient in the deodorant irritates the skin and triggers inflammation and itching. If you can find out the culprit and avoid the problem-causing ingredient to ease the itching.
How can I soothe irritated armpits?
Soothing irritated armpits can involve a mix of medical therapy, home remedies, and steps to reduce risk. They include gentle skin care products, controlling heat and moisture, using a cold compress, or over-the-counter medicine and topical options.
What is the difference between eczema and seborrhoeic dermatitis?
Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a long-term skin condition causing inflammation, redness, and itchiness. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is due to too much sebum or skin oils and showcases redness, scales, and itching. While both cause itchy skin, their causes and where they affect the body can differ. Atopic dermatitis is usually seen inside the elbows, behind the knees, and in front of the neck, while seborrhoeic dermatitis is seen in oily areas like the face, eyebrows, ears, eyelids, sides of the nose, and chest.
How do I know if my itchy armpits are caused by a fungal infection?
Fungal infections can cause itchy, erythematous (red), scaly plaques in the armpit. It is advised to consult a healthcare provider to properly identify and diagnose it. They can then suggest suitable therapy.
References:
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Axilla [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547723
- American Cancer Society. Lymph Nodes and Cancer [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/diagnosis-staging/lymph-nodes-and-cancer.html
- American Cancer Society. Inflammatory Breast Cancer [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/understanding-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis/types-of-breast-cancer/inflammatory-breast-cancer.html
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Eczema: Tips to help your child feel better [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/eczema-child-tips
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://donate.aad.org/” target=”_blank”> Donate </a><a href=”https://www.aad.org/members” target=”_blank”>For AAD Members</a><a href=”https://www.aad.org/public” target=”_blank”> </a><a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Eczema types: Contact dermatitis tips for managing [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/contact-dermatitis#overview
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Rash 101 in adults: When to seek medical treatment [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/itchy-skin/rash/rash-101
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Candidiasis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560624
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Alternative, Complementary, and Forgotten Remedies for Atopic Dermatitis – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4518179
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Seborrheic dermatitis: Diagnosis and treatment [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/seborrheic-dermatitis-treatment
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Medications that Weaken Your Immune System and Fungal Infections [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/infections/immune-system.html
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Eczema Resource Center [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Paraneoplastic pruritus presenting with Hodgkin’s lymphoma: a case report – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4170200
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Chronic Pruritus: a Paraneoplastic Sign – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3150589
- American Cancer Society. Lymph Nodes and Cancer [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-basics/lymph-nodes-and-cancer.html
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). What Is Breast Cancer? [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/what-is-breast-cancer.htm
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Acne-like breakouts could be folliculitis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/folliculitis
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Intertrigo and secondary skin infections [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24695603
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Psoriasis: Signs and symptoms [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/what/symptoms
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>How can I treat genital psoriasis? [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/treatment/genitals/genital-treat
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Hidradenitis suppurativa: Diagnosis and treatment [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hidradenitis-suppurativa-treatment
- American Cancer Society. Inflammatory Breast Cancer [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/types-of-breast-cancer/inflammatory-breast-cancer.html
- American Cancer Society. About Lymphoma of the Skin [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/skin-lymphoma/about.html
- American Academy of Dermatology. <a href=”https://www.ehealthcaresolutions.com/contact-us/” target=”_blank”>Advertisem*nt</a>Acanthosis nigricans: Overview [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/acanthosis-nigricans-overview
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Atopic Dermatitis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448071
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Contact Dermatitis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459230
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Miliaria [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537176
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Folliculitis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547754
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Psoriasis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448194
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Hidradenitis Suppurativa [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534867
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Acanthosis Nigricans [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431057
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Intertrigo [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531489
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Tinea Corporis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544360
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). T-Cell Lymphoma [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564354
- American Academy of Dermatology. Syphilis: Signs and symptoms [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/syphilis-symptoms
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Allergic Contact Dermatitis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532866
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Seborrheic Dermatitis [Internet]. [cited 2024 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551707
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisem*nts of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisem*nts do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
This might be related & helpful!
- Best Home Remedies For Smelly Armpits
- vagin*l Burning After Sex: Research-Based Reasons and Relief Options
- 7 Reasons As To Why You Have A Food Allergy
- 14 Reasons Why You Might Feel Fatigued!
Recommended Topics
Comments
Leave your comment...
