Painful Armpit Lumps: Causes and Treatment Options

Painful lump in the armpit?

Today is July 28th.
About a week ago, I noticed a lump in my armpit.
I had previously found lumps that disappeared after a while, but this time it hasn't gone away after about a week.
It started small and gradually got bigger.
Initially, there was a bit of pain, but it wasn't very noticeable.
Later, I began to feel more pain, and now it even hurts slightly when I relax.
It hurts when I pull or touch it, and when I palpate it, there is a slight sharp pain.
The size feels like it's between a 5-yen and a 10-yen coin, and the lump is attached to the skin, with an oval shape.

1.
Do I need surgery for this condition, or can it be treated with medication to reduce the swelling?
2.
Could this possibly be a common lymph node enlargement?
3.
What are the most common causes of this condition? Thank you.

Yuan Yuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/28

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

No lesions were observed, making it difficult to determine the issue.
If it is causing significant distress, please seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2019/07/28

More Info

Understanding painful lumps in the armpit can be concerning, and it's important to consider various potential causes and treatment options. Based on your description, it seems that you have developed a lump in your armpit that has gradually increased in size and has become painful. Let's address your questions and provide some insights into the possible causes and treatment options.

1. Surgical Intervention vs. Medication: Whether or not surgery is necessary depends on the underlying cause of the lump. If the lump is determined to be a benign condition, such as a lipoma (a fatty tumor) or a cyst, it may not require surgical intervention unless it causes significant discomfort or cosmetic concerns. On the other hand, if the lump is associated with an infection or an abscess, drainage or surgical intervention may be necessary. In some cases, if the lump is suspected to be a lymph node enlargement due to an infection or other conditions, treating the underlying cause with medication (such as antibiotics) may resolve the issue without the need for surgery. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional who can evaluate the lump through a physical examination and possibly imaging studies to determine the best course of action.

2. Lymph Node Enlargement: Yes, it is possible that the lump you are experiencing is related to lymph node enlargement. Lymph nodes can become swollen due to various reasons, including infections (such as bacterial or viral infections), inflammatory conditions, or even malignancies. The fact that you have experienced pain and tenderness in the area may suggest an inflammatory process. If the lump is indeed a swollen lymph node, it is crucial to identify the underlying cause, as this will guide treatment.

3. Potential Causes: There are several potential causes for a painful lump in the armpit, including:
- Infections: Bacterial infections, such as abscesses or cellulitis, can lead to localized swelling and pain. Viral infections can also cause lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes).

- Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa, which affects the sweat glands, can cause painful lumps in the armpit area.

- Benign Tumors: Lipomas and cysts are common benign growths that can occur in the armpit.

- Malignant Conditions: Although less common, lumps can also be associated with cancers, such as lymphoma or metastasis from other cancers.

In summary, it is essential to seek medical evaluation for your symptoms. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination, possibly order imaging studies (like an ultrasound), and may recommend a biopsy if there is concern about the nature of the lump. Treatment will depend on the diagnosis, and options may range from observation and medication to surgical intervention if necessary. Early evaluation is key to addressing any underlying issues and ensuring appropriate management.

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