Lumps in the Armpits: When to Seek Medical Attention - Breast and Thyroid

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When it comes to lumps in the armpits, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, you have noticed multiple lumps in your armpits, with some being painful upon pressure. Additionally, you have a history of hypothyroidism and have experienced symptoms such as low-grade fever, fatigue, and swelling.
Firstly, it is important to recognize that lymph nodes are commonly found in the armpit area (axillary region). These lymph nodes can become enlarged due to various reasons, including infections, inflammation, or malignancies. Infections, such as those caused by bacteria or viruses, can lead to lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), which may be tender to the touch. In your case, the presence of low-grade fever and fatigue could suggest an underlying infection or inflammatory process.

Given your history of hypothyroidism, it is also crucial to consider that thyroid dysfunction can sometimes lead to changes in the immune system, potentially making you more susceptible to infections. Additionally, the presence of persistent lumps, especially if they are painful, warrants further investigation.
Here are some key points to consider regarding your situation:
1. Duration and Changes: You mentioned that the lumps have been present for two months without any signs of resolution. Lumps that persist for more than a couple of weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially if they are painful or have changed in size or consistency.

2. Associated Symptoms: The combination of low-grade fever, fatigue, and swelling could indicate a systemic issue that needs to be addressed. These symptoms, along with the lumps, could suggest an infection or another underlying condition that requires medical attention.

3. Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will likely perform a physical examination to assess the lumps, check for other swollen lymph nodes, and evaluate your overall health. They may also inquire about other symptoms, such as weight loss, night sweats, or changes in appetite, which could provide additional context.

4. Diagnostic Tests: Depending on the findings from the physical examination, your doctor may recommend further diagnostic tests. This could include blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation, imaging studies (such as ultrasound) to evaluate the lumps more closely, or even a biopsy if there is a concern for malignancy.

5. When to Seek Immediate Care: If you experience any sudden changes, such as rapid growth of the lumps, severe pain, or other concerning symptoms (such as difficulty breathing or swallowing), you should seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, given your symptoms and the persistence of the lumps in your armpits, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough evaluation and determine the appropriate course of action, which may include monitoring, further testing, or treatment based on the underlying cause of your symptoms. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your health, especially with the presence of multiple symptoms.