Discovering a lump in armpit can trigger concern, but it is crucial to be aware of what a lump under armpit indicates to comprehend its implications. Armpit lumps can result from factors like cysts, infections, swollen lymph nodes, or more severe health issues. Consult a healthcare professional if the lump persists or grows. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for a better understanding.
Causes of Lump Under Armpit
Don’t dismiss a lump in armpit as trivial. While many are harmless, they can also signify more serious health issues. The cause of your armpit lump is the key factor in determining its seriousness.
- A small lump under armpit or swelling that resolves on its own is typically not a cause for concern.
- If you have a painful lump under armpit that is red or persistent, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a healthcare professional.
- A sizable lump that is red, painful, continues to grow, and is accompanied by a fever warrants immediate attention from a medical provider.
Armpit lumps may be attributed to various factors, including:
- Allergic reactions
- Fungal infections
- Lipomas (typically benign, harmless fat tissue growths)
- Breast cancer
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease affecting joints and organs)
- Bacterial or viral infections
- Hidradenitis suppurativa
- Fibroadenoma (non-cancerous fibrous tissue growth)
- Lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system)
- Adverse reactions to vaccinations
- Leukaemia (cancer of the blood cells)
Symptoms of Lump in Armpit
A lump in armpit varies in size, and its texture depends on the underlying cause. Soft lumps may indicate cysts, infections, or fatty growths, whereas firm, immobile lumps could suggest fibroadenomas or cancerous tumors. A painful lump under armpit is often linked to infections, allergies, or lymph node issues.
Infections may cause additional symptoms, such as –
- Fever
- Lymph node swelling
- Night sweats.
Persistent or changing lumps may be signs of more serious conditions
- Breast cancer
- Lymphoma
- Leukaemia.
Concerns About Armpit Lumps in Females
A lump in armpit is not restricted to gender or age. It can appear both in men as well as women. But a painful lump in women could be a cause of concern, potentially signaling breast cancer.
Regular self-examinations are vital, with prompt reporting of any lumps. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can lead to temporary breast tenderness or lumpiness, typically considered normal. For accurate self-exams, perform them 1-3 days after your period ends.
Hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic condition related to blocked apocrine gland hair follicles, may cause a painful lump in armpit female near the breast and can appear in the groin as well.
Risk factors include smoking, family history, and obesity. While its exact cause remains unclear, a lump in armpit is more common in women, though men can also be affected.
Diagnosing the Lump
To diagnose a lump in armpit, a thorough physical examination is the initial step. Your doctor will inquire about any changes and any associated pain. Palpation, which involves a manual examination, will help determine the lump’s texture and consistency while also assessing the nearby lymph nodes and tissues.
During the examination, benign lumps like lipomas may be identified and often require no further treatment. However, if necessary, your doctor may suggest removal options.
Based on the examination findings, your doctor may recommend additional tests, including
- Mammogram
- A complete blood count
- MRI/CT scan
- Biopsy
- Allergy testing, or fluid culture, to rule out infections, allergies, or potential cancerous changes.
Treatment of Lump Under Armpit
Treatment for a lump in armpit depends on its cause. Bacterial infections are treated with oral antibiotics. A response usually leads to lump reduction within days, but non-responsive cases may require intravenous antibiotics in a hospital setting. Allergic reaction-related lumps improve with medication and trigger avoidance.
Many armpit lumps resolve without intervention, necessitating only monitoring. Discomfort can be managed with home remedies like warm compresses and OTC pain relievers. Lumps not requiring treatment include those from lipomas, viral infections, and fibroadenomas.
Hidradenitis suppurativa may involve treatments such as
- Antibiotics
- Bleach baths
- Biologic therapy
- Wound dressing
- Anti-acne therapy
- Surgery
- Lifestyle changes.
Cancerous lumps demand specialist care involving chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery as dictated by cancer type and stage.
Conclusion
What does lump under armpit indicate, and the underlying causes of armpit lumps are the things you should be aware of for appropriate care? Whether it is a benign issue or a more serious concern, timely evaluation by a medical professional is the key to ensuring your well-being and receiving the necessary treatment.
