How common is skin rash in intertrigo?

Intertrigo is irritation in a skin fold caused by moisture, heat, and friction. The rash may be red, sore, itchy, or cracked, and can occur under the breasts, in the groin, armpits, abdomen, or between other touching surfaces. Yeast or bacteria can sometimes grow in the damaged, damp area, changing the appearance or increasing discomfort. A rash in a fold has several possible causes, so the location does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Gently wash the area and pat it completely dry, including after exercise or bathing. Choose loose clothing and breathable fabrics, and change damp garments promptly. Reduce rubbing and avoid fragranced products on broken skin. Do not share towels. If symptoms persist, recur, or become more inflamed, a clinician can check whether an additional infection or another skin condition is present and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Seek medical advice for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, pus, an unpleasant odor, fever, or redness extending beyond the fold. Prompt assessment is also sensible when the skin is open, you have diabetes, or self-care has not helped. Urgent care is needed for rapidly spreading redness, severe illness, or facial swelling or breathing difficulty.

Ask what is driving the irritation, whether yeast or bacteria may be involved, which cleanser or barrier is suitable, and how to reduce moisture and friction in that particular fold. Tell the clinician about recurrence and any recent products.