Painful Lump Under Left Armpit: What You Need to Know - Surgery

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Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the painful lump under your left armpit. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing discomfort in the area for about two months, with the pain intensifying around your menstrual cycle. You also mentioned that an ultrasound performed by a breast surgeon did not reveal any abnormalities, and the doctor suggested that your perception of the lump might be a misinterpretation.

First, it’s important to understand that lumps or swellings in the armpit area can arise from various causes, including swollen lymph nodes, cysts, or even muscle strain. The fact that you can feel a lump but it was not detected on ultrasound could indicate that it is a small lymph node or a benign cyst that may not be easily visualized on imaging studies. Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can also lead to swelling or tenderness in breast tissue and surrounding areas, which might explain the increased pain you experience before your period.

Given that the lump has become painful and is associated with your menstrual cycle, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation. Here are some steps you might consider:
1. Consult a Specialist: Since you have already seen a breast surgeon, it may be beneficial to return to them for a follow-up. If you feel that your concerns were not fully addressed, you might also consider seeking a second opinion from another breast specialist or a general surgeon who has experience with breast and axillary conditions.

2. Further Imaging: If the lump persists and continues to cause discomfort, you may want to discuss the possibility of additional imaging studies. Sometimes, a different type of imaging, such as a mammogram or MRI, may provide more information than an ultrasound, especially if the lump is deep or small.

3. Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional is crucial. They can assess the lump's characteristics, such as its size, shape, and mobility, and determine if it is tender or fixed to surrounding tissues.

4. Consider Other Causes: If the lump is not a lymph node or cyst, other conditions such as muscle strain or even referred pain from other areas (like the breast or chest wall) should be considered. A physical therapist or a general practitioner may help evaluate for musculoskeletal issues.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the lump, such as size, shape, or associated symptoms like fever, weight loss, or changes in your menstrual cycle. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

6. Hormonal Evaluation: Since you mentioned the pain correlates with your menstrual cycle, discussing hormonal factors with your doctor may also be beneficial. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to breast tenderness and changes in surrounding tissues.

In summary, while the initial ultrasound did not show any abnormalities, your ongoing symptoms warrant further investigation. It is essential to advocate for your health and seek additional evaluations if you feel your concerns are not being addressed. Don’t hesitate to ask for further tests or referrals until you feel satisfied with the answers and care you receive. Your health and peace of mind are paramount.