Red bumps under one armpit

[tattoodchicky]

I have had, what it seems to be, a rash under my right armpit for about 3 weeks now.  I noticed it after I shaved 3 weeks ago and I thought it was "razor burn".  I left it alone and did not shave for a week or so and it is still there.  They are red bumps that turn into blisters and they itch and burn like crazy.  Can you please help me figure out how to get rid of this?  I did end up shaving when it looked like it was getting better then 2 days later it came back but worse.  I have tried to not wear deodorant on that armpit but I can't go on much longer :(  I just moved from Florida and I do not have health insurance until October with my new job, so any help will be MUCH appreciated.  I have no allergies and I have been using the same soap for ages.  Thank you in advance for your help.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it can be intertrigo,sweat dermatitis or contact dermatitis.

Please keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical zinc oxide cream like Sudocrem, Desitin are very helpful (apply with a paper towel and not directly with hands).Application of mild steroid cream like Dermacort also helps. For the itching please take some over the counter antihistaminic like Benadryl or Claritin. In case the symptoms persist then antifungals may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.