Nipple Dermatitis  Information for adults

Breast-feeding women often have trouble with nipple dermatitis; many have a prior history of eczema (atopic dermatitis) or easily irritated skin. Breast-feeding women with a previous history of yeast vaginitis or whose infants also use a bottle or pacifier may have more risk for a yeast nipple infection.

Allergic reactions may occur from either food particles in a nursing infant's mouth or from lotions or creams applied to the nipple area.

Men and non-breast-feeding women who have nipple dermatitis also often have a history of eczema or easily irritated skin. Asymmetric breast size may lead to irritation from clothing or friction from exercise.

The rare breast cancer, Paget's disease, may occur in men or women and is usually seen in older people (over 50).