Question:
When should I start documenting rashes?

I have had a horrible case of intrigo (yeast infections in the folds of skin usually under panni, arms, breasts, etc.) I get it at least twice a week the only thing that stops it is solid deodorant, but then the residue builds up. I have scar tissue from nearly a decade of these rashes. The WORST is under my panni...the discharge smells awful and the pain is near unbearable. I am having surgery 2/24, and I *know* I will need a TT, since I have more than 200#s to lose. When should I start taking pictures of the intrigo (rash)? I just want all this pain to STOP!    — Erinn D. (posted on November 3, 2003)

November 3, 2003
It's not so much that you need to take pictures, but you need your doctor to document that you are having them and what treatment they are giving you for it. And to answer your question....NOW. And every time you have one. :)
   — RebeccaP

November 3, 2003
I too get those painful nasty rashes, pre op and now post op. I use Desitin Creamy(for diaper rash). It immediately relieves the pain and promptly heals the rash. I know I should be going to the Dr. to document every rash, but would be running to the doc every 2 weeks. I have no co-pay for office calls so I might as well go eh. Hopefully my insurance (BCN) will approve me for the skin removal.
   — Lois B.

November 3, 2003
I have a friend who suffers like you do and she has a prescription powder she uses, maybe you could ask your doctor for that. I suggest taking the pictures now. Never enough evidence I would think! Good luck!
   — corkee

November 5, 2003
I too have problems with rashes under my panni. I usually wash and dry it really well. Then I use cornstarch or baby powder and tuck in an old tube sock (YES--a clean one!). My OB/GYN suggested this after I had my first son by C-section. The clean cotton sock helps absorb the excess moisture. It's long enough to reach from side to side without being too bulky.
   — Kathy J.

November 5, 2003
See your derma to start documenting. The day of the first rash wouldn't have been too soon. To try to cut it down, try this (from my derma): wash & dry, apply an anti-fungal, like Lotrimen for feet (but store brand is fine). Do this 3X per day for a few days til you see a change, then 2X per day til clear, then once/day forever. Never, EVER use powder or corn starch as that just feeds the yeast and makes them happier. I know just putting the cream on would be easier, but FIRST you have to wash them off, then dry the area so that it is not inviting them back, and then put up a barrier to prevent them from coming back and killing off any you missed with the wash. It doesn't take long to get it cleared up, but as soon as you miss a day or two, it'll be back. I had to go to 2X a day a coupla days/week during the summer, but the rest of the time, once/day did the job til I got my TT. I know the concept of no powder is foreign, but honest, the yeast feed on any powders.
   — vitalady