How to Treat Rashes from the Side Effects of Lactobacillus

Lactobacillus is referred to as the "good" bacteria inside of our bodies. It's produced naturally in the intestinal tract and in the vagina. Lactobacillus produces vitamin K and has anti-microbial properties. One of the greatest benefits is that it takes the sugar in our system and converts it to lactic acid, and lactic acid helps stop the growth of "bad" bacteria. Many people take lactobacillus supplements for this reason. Unfortunately, if you're sensitive or allergic to supplemental lactobacillus, you can develop an irritating and unsightly rash. Treating this rash is fairly simple, and it should improve within a few days.

Things You'll Need

• 1 percent hydrocortisone cream
• Ice
• Antihistamine
• Water

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Instructions

• 1

  Discontinue the use of lactobacillus supplements. This is the first and most obvious way to begin healing. Also, limit your intake of natural yogurt until the rash has disappeared. Yogurt contains natural lactobacillus, and while the amount found in yogurt may not upset your system, you won't know that until you go without it and let the rash heal.

• 2

  Apply 1 percent hydrocortisone cream to stop the itch. Hydrocortisone cream is available over the counter, and helps reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with a rash. It also helps stop the itch.

• 3

  Apply an ice compress to the rash. This is a natural way to reduce swelling, as it constricts the blood vessels and slows blood flow to the area. The coolness of the ice pack also helps temporarily stop the itch.

• 4

  Take an antihistamine. Histamines are substances that cause allergic reactions by attaching to your cells and irritating them. An antihistamine prevents the histamines from connecting to the cells. There are many different antihistamines available over the counter. Some examples are diphenhydramine, brompheniramine and loratadine. Ask your pharmacist which over-the-counter medicines contain these antihistamines, and which one would be best for your rash.

• 5

  Drink extra water. Water helps flush toxins from the system and speeds healing.