Chafing is caused by friction and moisture and can be painful and uncomfortable. It can cause damage to the skin, but this usually heals itself, except in exceptional circumstances when complications can occur.
Causes of chafing
Skin rubbing against itself or on clothes or other materials is the cause of chafing. This often happens due to hot weather, excess skin, ill-fitting clothes, or intense movement or exercise. The areas most commonly affected are the thighs, the groin, the bottom, the breasts, the nipples and the armpits. Moisture can make the problem worse, and this is why chafing usually affects moist, warm areas of the body.
Symptoms of chafing
Symptoms of chafing can range from the mild to the severe. Mild symptoms usually include dry, flaky skin, tenderness, irritation, itching, burning or stinging, raised bumps and a red rash.
In more severe cases, it may cause welts, muscle pain, swelling, bleeding and broken skin. This normally happens when mild chafing hasn’t been addressed by wearing barrier products or anti chafing shorts from Better Tights and other specialist suppliers.
Do I need medical help?
In most cases, chafing can be treated at home. To start with, try to prevent chafing from occurring or getting worse, such as by wearing anti chafing shorts or t-shirts. Keeping the area clean and dry will also help, as will using petroleum jelly on the affected area.
Chafing will normally heal in a few days, but you may need to seek medical advice via your GP or NHS 111. In serious cases, infections and open wounds can occur, which may need attention.
Conclusion
Chafing will not normally cause permanent damage to the skin and is easy to prevent in order to stop problems from occurring. If it does happen, the first step is identifying the cause and then taking action to prevent the chafing from happening. If you notice crusting or discolouration, it is probably time to see a healthcare professional, as antibiotics or an antifungal medication may be required.