I didn't know where else to post this because there's no "medical" group per se. Mom has AD and still manages to shower herself. However, she recently showed me a rash she has developed under her breasts. I suspect it's related to her not wearing a bra most of the time around the house, and well, with age, she's lost all "perkiness" in that region (trying to be delicate)...At first, I tried using Goldbond Medicated (spray on) powder because it looked like a sweat rash...I even bought "nursing pads" to create a dry/comfort barrier between her skin/bra (when she does wear one). It seemed to help some...I bought some very gentle non-scented baby wash to use to avoid irritation of the area. Then I bought spray on Calamine lotion to try a different time...Today it's as red as ever. I strongly suggested my mom stay in bed, on her back so that the air can "circulate" in that area (where it can't while sitting secondary to her anatomy.) The area is dry and quite red with irritation...I don't know what to try next...diaper rash cream? I suppose it could be yeast - so, how does one best treat that? I really would rather not run to the doctor without exploring options. Advice is appreciated.
Once healed, you'll have to fight to keep the area dry. It sounds like you are doing a good job with that, but, I would consider a lightweight bra that is comfortable.
My cousin has very large breast and she isn't wild about wearing a bra, so, what I found that works VERY well are these pullover bras. They are made from a very good fabric that doesn't hold moisture. It's lightweight and has no hooks or hard straps. You just pull it over the head and it fits like a snug t-shirt. It's not tight, but, is just enough to keep the skin from rubbing and sweating.
A doctor can prescribe nystatin in powder or cream to clear it up
It's a challenge to keep the area dry but try placing baby washcloths under her breasts to absorb dampness
I also use herbal creams w/no preservatives or toxic chemicals. I have a collection of "body butters" with ginger, coconut lime, lavender, vanilla and frankincense, myrhh and other fragrances.
PM me if you need sources for these delightfully fragrant and soothing lotions. (I'm not a seller, not an herbalist, and am not hawking any specific vendor. We just can't post full URLs here as they're truncated).
If you buy them in a store, make sure you see and test a sample; some herbal blends aren't as smooth as others and can be somewhat granulated.
I too think it sounds like a yeast infection. Wearing a bra is probably good to prevent skin to skin contact. An antifungal cream, OTC or from the doctor if a stronger one is needed. The area needs to be kept cool and dry.
cwillie - I am interested that a barrier cream helps.
I've used cornstarch for years w/o any problem, but since any rashes generally occurred in summer, I knew they were from heat.
You made a good point.
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