Other Skin Conditions: Moles, Birthmarks, Dryness, Etc. / Question
Published: May 2, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Every time I sweat I get itchy in my hair, around my head, my chest and sides. Is this normal and what can I do about it?
Signed: Mad Scratcher
Dear Mad Scratcher,
Although sweat itself does not cause an allergic reaction, it can do other things that can cause a rash. Sweat can increase the friction between the skin surfaces that can cause a rash known as "sweat dermatitis." Also sweat can promote itching, which can cause a rash in people with sensitive skin. In most cases a little itching will not cause a problem but people with a certain type of sensitive skin (atopic dermatitis) seem prone to rashes when they scratch too much.
Sweat can also become a skin irritant when mixed with chemicals that you are allergic to. For example someone who is allergic to the detergent used to wash their clothes may not have a problem when their clothes are dry. If the person perspires and his/her clothing gets wet, then the sweat carries the detergent molecules (which had been sitting harmlessly in the fabric) into contact with the skin and an allergic reaction can occur.
Finally, fungal infections can cause a person to itch excessively. Fungus likes moist areas and likes to grow on skin.
If you have tried drying your self completely after you sweat, then you really should see a doctor for treatment. A doctor will be able to tell you if it is a fungal infection that needs medical treatment or if something else is causing the rash.
If you would like to meet with a doctor from the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health in Morristown, New Jersey you can call 974.971.6475 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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