Painful Lumps in the Armpit: When to See a Doctor

There is a hard lump in the armpit?

A month ago, I noticed a painful area in my armpit that appeared red and swollen, and there was a firm lump when I touched it.
Initially, I thought it was a bug bite, so I applied a topical ointment.
The redness subsided, but when I raise my arm, there is still a hard lump under the skin that is painful to touch or press.
It doesn't hurt when I don't use my arm, and recently I've started experiencing occasional numbness in my arm.
I plan to see a doctor in the next few days; which specialty should I consult? Thank you, doctor.

A-Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/06

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! It is recommended to see a general surgeon.
Wishing you safety! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2017/05/06

More Info

When it comes to painful lumps in the armpit, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it sounds like you may have developed a condition that could be related to several underlying issues, including lymphadenopathy, infections, or even issues related to the muscles or nerves in that area.

The lump you described could be a swollen lymph node, which often occurs in response to infections, inflammation, or even more serious conditions. Lymph nodes can become enlarged due to various reasons, including localized infections (like a skin infection), systemic infections (like a viral infection), or even malignancies. The fact that you initially thought it was a bug bite suggests that there may have been some localized inflammation or infection that has since resolved, but the lymph node remains swollen.

The pain you experience when pressing on the lump, along with the numbness in your arm, is concerning. Numbness can indicate nerve involvement, which may be due to compression or irritation of the nerves in the area. This could be related to muscle tension, inflammation, or even a more serious condition that requires further evaluation.

Given these symptoms, it is advisable to see a healthcare provider. You should consider visiting a primary care physician or a specialist in internal medicine. They can conduct a thorough examination, review your medical history, and possibly order imaging studies or blood tests to determine the cause of the lump and associated symptoms. If the lump is suspected to be related to a lymph node, they may refer you to an infectious disease specialist or an oncologist if there are concerns about malignancy.

In the meantime, it is essential to monitor the lump for any changes in size, shape, or associated symptoms such as fever, night sweats, or weight loss, which could indicate a more serious condition. Avoid pressing on the lump excessively, as this may exacerbate any underlying inflammation or irritation.

In summary, while some lumps in the armpit can be benign and resolve on their own, the presence of pain, numbness, and the persistence of the lump warrant a medical evaluation. Seeking care from a primary care physician or an internal medicine specialist is a prudent step to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, especially if there is an underlying infection or other condition that requires intervention.

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