aereola/nipple infection/rash-natural treatment?

[hanbanan]

I have this two or three week persistant rash on my aereola. I am nursing my teething 16 month old. It is not too bad, but red and a little sore, esp when he nurses. But it has gotten a little better, then worse. It maybe responded a bit to niastatin, but not really. I also tried calendula, and also bacitracin. Nothing yet has had signifcant affect... I went to the doctor today and she immediately said she would prescribe an oral antibiotic. NOW, this seems rash (no pun intended!), It's a little rash, not a systemic problem... I declined ( I avoid oral antibiotics whenever possible), and she prescribed topical antibiotic. ...

My question is, what else can I do--some natural alternative to antibiotics, that might clear it up. Goldenseal orally? echinacea? more vit C...It seems weird that this rash seems a big enought deal to doc for her to try to prescribe antibiotics...

Anyone else had a rash/infection like this? treatment ideas? I do plan to use the antib cream for five or so days...

Thanks!

[hanbanan]

anyone?thanks!

[ShwarmaQueen]

I had to reply to your post because I'm having HORRIBLE eczema on my nipples right now. I had to see a dermatologist after the dairyfree diet my MW put me on didn't work, and the derm prescribed me a steroid cream. I hate to use it, but on days when the itching is unbearable, I do use a little. I doubt that it's safe for nursing, but wanted to suggest to you to maybe go see a dermatologist? I know how aweful it is!!!