|  | Cancer | Breast Cancer

My breasts are itchy. What is wrong with me?

There are several potential causes for breast itching, including:

- Dry skin: Dry skin is a common cause of itchy breasts, especially during dry winter months.

- Skin irritation: Certain fabrics, soaps, detergents, and other products can irritate the skin and cause itching. Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation caused by direct contact with an allergen or an irritant.

- Eczema: Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that can cause red, itchy, and inflamed skin.

- Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells. This causes an accumulation of dead skin cells and itchy, reddish, and scaly patches on the skin.

- Breast infection: A breast infection, also known as mastitis, can cause breast tenderness, warmth, redness, and swelling along with itching.

- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause increased sensitivity and itching in the breasts.

- Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to dry skin and itching in the breasts.

- Underlying medical condition: In rare cases, breast itching may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or thyroid problems.

If the breast itching is persistent or severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Self-diagnosis and self-treatment may not be effective and could delay the proper management of the underlying cause.

Breast Cancer - Related Articles