Armpit › Hidradenitis suppurativa, intertrigo and other skin conditions
Hidradenitis suppurativa, intertrigo and other skin conditions
Some armpit problems are skin conditions rather than hygiene. Knowing the signs helps you get the right treatment, sooner.
Not medical advice. A doctor must diagnose these conditions. Use this page to know what to ask about.
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)
The NHS describes HS as a painful, long-term skin condition that causes skin abscesses and scarring. The exact cause is unknown, but the lumps develop as a result of blocked hair follicles. The NHS says it is not infectious and is not linked to poor hygiene.
Risk factors
- Smoking and obesity, which the NHS says are strongly associated with HS
- Age and hormones: it usually begins after puberty
- Family history: the NHS says it runs in families in about 1 in 3 cases
- In rare cases, an association with Crohn's disease
Treatment
The NHS says that in the early stages it may be controlled with medicine. Options include antibiotics, antiseptic washes, retinoids, contraceptives, immunosuppressive drugs and steroids, depending on severity, and surgery may be needed in severe or persistent cases. The NHS describes HS as a lifelong, recurring condition, and says symptoms may improve or eventually stop with treatment. A GP can arrange a referral if needed. Tell your doctor if pain or scarring is affecting your mood.
Intertrigo
A patient leaflet from Oxford University Hospitals describes intertrigo as a rash that forms where skin rubs against skin, most often under the breasts, between the thighs or in the armpits. Moisture, heat, poor air circulation and friction are the main triggers, and warm damp skin also encourages yeast, fungus or bacteria. Symptoms can include a red or reddish-brown rash, raw or itchy skin, cracking, weeping and pain.
- Wash gently and dry the skin thoroughly, patting rather than rubbing.
- Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing.
- Barrier, steroid, antifungal or antibiotic creams may help; ask a GP or pharmacist first.
- See a GP if you think you have it, because other skin conditions can look similar.
Other possible causes of an armpit rash
Armpit rashes can have many causes, including irritation or allergy to a product, infection, or a skin condition. A GP or pharmacist can help identify it. If you suspect a product, stop using it and see our guide to antiperspirants, and for spots around hair, see shaving rash.
When to see a GP
- Lumps or boils that keep coming back or are very painful
- A rash that does not improve with simple care
- Signs of infection such as spreading redness, heat, pus or fever (see when to see a GP)
- Any lump that persists; see armpit lumps
Support and mental health
Living with HS can be painful and distressing. Charities such as HS Support groups and the British Association of Dermatologists' patient resources offer information, and many dermatology departments have specialist nurses. Tell your GP if pain, smell or scarring makes you anxious or low, because help is available for both skin and wellbeing.
Getting ready for an appointment
Keep a short diary of flare-ups: where the lumps appeared, how long they lasted, whether they burst, and anything that seemed to bring them on. Take photos during a flare, because lumps may have settled by the time you see the doctor. Note whether anyone in your family has a similar problem, since the NHS says it runs in families in about 1 in 3 cases.
Frequently asked questions
Is hidradenitis suppurativa caused by poor hygiene?
No. The NHS says it is not infectious and is not linked to poor hygiene.
Can HS be cured?
The NHS describes it as lifelong and recurring, but says symptoms may improve or eventually stop with treatment.
What is intertrigo?
A rash where skin rubs against skin, such as in the armpits, caused by moisture, heat and friction, sometimes with infection.