Nipple pain/scabs without breastfeeding?

[banjo89]

I wasn't sure where to put this...

I am a healthy 21 yo female...two days ago, quite out of the blue, both of my nipples began hurting like the bejeezus. It passed into an occasional burning sensation which I didn't really take much note of (thought I had maybe got into something I was allergic to). The next day, right after I got out of the shower, the pain begins anew. So sensitive even the slightest touch of fabric over them was quite sore.

This passed...and once again, all I experience are mild burning sensations which come and go. Upon closer examination, my nipples are both red and have tiny little red scabs on them...they also seem a bit scaly and dry. I haven't scratched them at all. The areola and the rest of the breast is normal and non-itchy.

I am predisposed to hand eczema which I treat with a zinc oxide cream whenever it should flare. This morning I put some on both nipples. just in case it's a rash, but it seems sort of weird that they should *both* be acting this way...and there is no itching, just burning/pain.

I am not on my period and have never been pregnant. Anyone ever had something similar happen?

[remar]

Have you bought any news clothes or bras? Have you changed your body soap or laundry soap? That's such a sensitive area I'm not sure I would put eczema cream on them. See your family Dr or a dermatologist. I hope you feel better soon.. Remar

[Brightgirl42]

Yes, get to your doctor. Not to scare you, but these can also be signs of breast cancer.
Any changes in your breasts and any scabbing needs to be checked out soon. Best of luck.

[banjo89]

Thank you for the replies...

No changes in clothing or detergent (but if that were the case, then wouldn't more of the breast be effected?)
I am due for a check-up anyway so I will bring this up...it's just very odd!

[remar]

Make this your first question when you see the Dr. Are you having any other symptoms like leakage?  Remar

[banjo89]

No, no leakage...or anything else aside from the soreness (and occasional itchiness, as I have noted today). I actually just gave myself a self exam (first one ever), but my breasts appear to be of the naturally lumpy kind (some are squishy/movable, one or two felt less so but I'm no expert),  so I really don't know. We don't have any history of breast cancer in my immediate family, so it appearing in a 21 yo like me would be quite strange...but, I am not completely discounting anything.
They are just very sensitive and one appears to be getting a bit more red in one little spot.

Getting to the Doc will be difficult as she is located a town away (we recently moved and haven't yet moved GP offices)...and I do not have access to a car. But I'll do my best...