Rash in the Armpit Area
Profile: 27-year-old transgender male, Height: 5'7, Weight: 12 stone 12 pounds. Medical Background: 18 days following a double incision mastectomy, currently on IM Sustanon 250mg (for three weeks), daily methylphenidate hydrochloride, and Salofalk. Also takes paracetamol and tramadol as necessary. No smoking, alcohol, or drug use. I am currently 18 days post-operative from my top surgery, which initially restricted my movement due to pain for approximately 8 days. Thankfully, I've been gradually regaining my mobility. At present, I can move around quite comfortably, provided I don’t lift my arms excessively or twist my upper body. However, about two to three days ago, I noticed a sudden onset of a rash under both arms. The rash appears red and somewhat inflamed, with a distinct sharp edge, and it has become increasingly uncomfortable. Additionally, there is an unpleasant odor reminiscent of body odor, which is particularly frustrating as I have maintained my hygiene practices diligently. Despite washing daily, this smell returns shortly after, even though it dissipates temporarily. I have been using a gentle body wash (usually Sanex) along with the salt of the earth natural deodorant, both of which have worked well in the past, but they seem ineffective now. I’ll provide images in the comments for reference. What steps or products can I use to eliminate this smell promptly and address the rash? Ideally, I would prefer options available at a pharmacy, considering I live in a small town where the local doctor serves multiple areas, leading to long wait times for appointments.
Answers (1)
8/15/2025, 8:03:09 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a troublesome rash along with an odor under your arms following your surgery. This can be concerning, especially given your recent double incision mastectomy. The rash and odor might be related to irritation, infection, or a reaction to products, especially as your skin heals. Let's address your needs and outline some practical steps to help relieve your symptoms.
Main Points:
- The rash could be a sign of irritation or an infection.
- Maintaining cleanliness while allowing the area to heal is important.
- There are OTC products that can help manage odor and soothe irritation.
Explanation:
After surgery, it's common for the skin to become sensitive, and factors like sweat and moisture can cause rashes in areas of friction, such as the armpits. The redness and discomfort you're experiencing might be due to irritation or perhaps a mild infection, especially considering the sharp edges of the rash. The odor could stem from bacteria growing in the warm, moist environment created under your arms.
Next Steps:
-
Keep the Area Clean and Dry:
- Gently wash your armpits with a mild, unscented soap to avoid further irritation. You might try using a gentle antiseptic wash, like hibiscus or tea tree oil soap, but be cautious if you haven't used these before.
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Apply a Barrier Cream:
- After cleaning, consider applying a barrier cream (like zinc oxide ointment or a hypoallergenic moisturizer) to protect the skin from friction and moisture. This can help soothe the rash and reduce odor.
-
Use an Antimicrobial Deodorant:
- Look for a fragrance-free, alcohol-free deodorant containing antimicrobial properties (like baking soda or witch hazel) to help manage odor without irritating the skin further.
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Avoid Excessive Moisture:
- Allow for airflow to the area as much as possible. If you're comfortable, try to wear loose-fitting clothing to minimize sweat accumulation.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep an eye on the rash for any signs of progression, such as worsening pain, increased redness, or discharge. If the condition worsens or doesn’t improve with these measures within a week, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider.
Additional Consideration:
Due to the potential for infection or more severe irritation, if you have access to an online consultation or can use telehealth services, it may be beneficial to get professional insight, especially if you're worried about infection.
Please know that healing takes time, and being proactive about your care can help alleviate symptoms. If you have any more questions or need further details on any of the steps, feel free to ask!
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