Swollen Lymph Nodes in Armpit: Here’s What It Means

Lymph nodes are important for your immune system to function. When they become swollen in the armpit, it can be concerning as your body detects an infection or some other irregularities. The common reason for it to happen is due to an infection in the skin or breast. It can also occur due to inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or breast cancer.

If you’re someone with swollen lymph nodes, knowing about its effect on your body is important. You may also need medical attention in some cases. This article will inform you about the causes of swollen lymph nodes, their symptoms and treatment so that you can make informed decisions about your health.

What are Lymph Nodes?

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures found throughout the body. They are an important part of the immune system and act as filters, helping trap and destroy harmful substances like bacteria, viruses, and abnormal cells. 

They contain various types of immune cells, such as lymphocytes, which help fight infections and diseases. These nodes are connected by lymphatic vessels, through which lymph fluid flows. When the body detects abnormality, lymph nodes can enlarge as they work to give an immune response.

All About Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit are also called axillary lymphadenopathy. This condition occurs when the body detects an infection, inflammation, or abnormality in the surrounding areas. The lymph nodes in the armpit may respond by becoming enlarged. This enlargement happens when increased immune cells, such as lymphocytes, are activated and accumulate in the lymph nodes to fight off the infection or process and filter out abnormal cells.

What Do They Indicate?

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can happen due to various conditions. They may feel tender, and you may have lymph node pain, warmth, or redness in the affected area. However, sometimes, there may be no noticeable symptoms. A physical examination may help in detecting it.

The most common causes of swollen lymph nodes:

• Infections: When you have this condition, you may have an infection in the arm, breast, or nearby areas. The infection can be either bacterial, viral, or fungal.
• Inflammatory conditions: Inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or dermatitis can also lead to generalised lymphadenopathy.
• Cancer: Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can be a sign of cancer, particularly breast cancer. However, swollen lymph nodes do not always indicate cancer and can have various other causes.

Seek medical help if you notice persistent or unexplained swelling of lymph nodes in the armpit. A healthcare professional will ask about your medical history and order tests to find the cause. You may also be prescribed imaging tests such as ultrasound or biopsy. Also, sometimes, many cases resolve on their own as the underlying cause is treated or the infection/inflammation subsides. 

Implications of Swollen Lymph Nodes in Other Regions of the Body

Swollen glands, or swollen lymph nodes, in different regions of the body, other than the armpits, can have various implications depending on the underlying cause. For example:

• Neck (Cervical lymph nodes): Neck glands swollen can indicate infections in the throat, ears, or scalp, dental issues, or inflammatory conditions like autoimmune disorders.
• Groyne (Inguinal lymph nodes): Swollen glands in the groyne can occur due to infections in the legs, genitals, or lower abdominal area or as a result of inflammatory conditions.
• Abdomen (Mesenteric lymph nodes): Infections in the abdominal organs or gastrointestinal tract can lead to swelling of the mesenteric lymph nodes, such as inflammatory bowel disease.
• Chest (Mediastinal lymph nodes): Infections in the chest or certain cancers affecting the chest can cause swelling of the mediastinal lymph nodes.

Checking for Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit

To inspect for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, follow these steps:

• Stand in front of a mirror with your arms relaxed.
• Use your hand to feel the armpit area on the opposite side.
• Press your fingers and feel any swollen lymph nodes.
• Move your fingers in a circular motion to cover the entire armpit area.
• Repeat this on both armpits to compare differences.
• Note any changes in size, pain or texture of the lymph nodes.
• If you notice any persistent swelling, consult a healthcare professional.

Treatment for Swollen Lymph Nodes 

The swollen lymph nodes treatment depends on the underlying cause. The doctor asks you about your medical history, recently taken medication, etc, to determine the underlying cause. They may also order certain tests to know what’s causing your swollen lymph nodes. Sometimes, swollen lymph nodes can also resolve independently as the body fights off the infection or inflammation. However, if the swelling is still there or you have severe lymph node pain, fever, or other concerning symptoms, seek medical help to determine the appropriate treatment.

The swollen lymph nodes treatment options may include:

• Observation: If the swollen lymph nodes are not causing discomfort and are a minor infection, you may be advised observation without specific treatment.
• Treatment with medications: You may be given antibiotics, antiviral medications, or antifungal medications for the treatment.
• Surgical intervention: In some rare cases, if the swollen lymph node pain is significant or causes other complications, the doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to drain or remove the affected lymph nodes.
• OTC Pain relief: You may be prescribed over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), to alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.
• Treatment of underlying condition: If the swollen lymph nodes occur due to an autoimmune disorder or cancer, the doctor will develop a treatment plan specific to that condition.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention?

It is advisable to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following concerning signs or symptoms related to swollen lymph nodes in the armpit or any other region:

• If the swelling persists for more than two weeks without improvement.
• If the lymph nodes rapidly increase in size or become very tender.
• If the swollen lymph nodes cause significant pain or discomfort.
• If you experience fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue in addition to swollen lymph nodes.
• If you notice hard or fixed lymph nodes, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or if other abnormal symptoms accompany the swelling.

Conclusion

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit or any other susceptible region in your body are usually a result of the immune system responding to infection or inflammation. While most cases resolve on their own, persistent swelling or concerning symptoms should prompt medical attention. 

Proper diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment. Whether it is monitoring, home remedies, or medical interventions, seeking timely evaluation ensures optimal management. It is important to prioritise your health and consult a healthcare professional when needed.