Fissure of the nipple

Fissure of the nipple

Jogger's nipple (more correctly known as a fissure of the nipple) is a condition of soreness, dryness or irritation to, or bleeding of, one or both nipples during and/or following running or other physical exercise. This condition is also experienced by surfers who do not wear rash guards.

Cause

Jogger's nipple is caused by friction from the repeated rubbing of a t-shirt or other upper body clothing against the nipples during a prolonged period of exercise.

The condition is suffered mainly by runners. Long-distance runners are especially prone, because they are exposed to the friction on the nipple for the greatest period of time. However, it is not only suffered by athletes; the inside of a badge, or a logo on normal items of clothing can also cause the friction which results in this condition.

Prevention

Runner's Nipple after a 10 k run on a hot day

The condition is easily preventable. Viable methods include:

• Running shirtless whenever weather permits.
• Using a large, loose-fitting T-shirt during exercise.
• Wearing "technical" shirts made of synthetic fabrics, not cotton.
• Sticking a small bandage or paper surgical tape over each nipple before the commencement of exercise, to act as a barrier between skin and cloth.
• If the skin is already damaged, apply a pure lanolin product (e.g. Lansinoh or Bag Balm) to the area prior to exercise to prevent chafing. If the skin is not damaged, a barrier product (e.g. Vaseline) can be used. These products do not allow air to circulate around damaged skin; this can prevent healing if used over a period of time. NU-Skin liquid Bandage can be very helpful for healing although it may sting initially, it also works as a preventative and is more discreet than tape.
• Using specialized products available to prevent the condition such as rash guards.
• Wearing a sports bra, shimmel, compression vest, or some variety of chest binding clothing.

This condition should clear within a few days. If not, medical attention is warranted. Other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, impetigo, fungal infections or an allergic reaction can cause nipple pain and changes in the appearance of the skin. In women, hormonal changes in early pregnancy or during menstruation can also cause nipple soreness and pain.

Other names

Jogger's nipple is also known as runner's nipple, surfer's nipple, red eleven, raver's nipple, big Q's, red nipple, weightlifter's nipple and gardener's nipple, or nipple chafe. There are similar colloquial terms for almost any activity that can result in the condition.

See also

• Golfer's elbow
• Nintendo thumb
• Jogger's toe
• Surfer's ear
• Tennis elbow
• Tennis toe
• Turf toe
• List of cutaneous conditions

External links

• Using medical tape to prevent jogger's nipple.