Armpit Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When experiencing armpit pain, especially if it is accompanied by sensations of swelling or tenderness, it is essential to consider various potential causes and when to seek medical advice. Given your symptoms of pain and discomfort near the armpit and breast area, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, specifically a primary care physician or a specialist in either internal medicine or breast health.


Possible Causes of Armpit Pain
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: Pain in the armpit area can often be related to muscle strain or injury, particularly if you have engaged in activities that involve lifting or repetitive arm movements. Conditions such as tendinitis or muscle strain can lead to localized pain and discomfort.

2. Lymphadenopathy: Swelling or tenderness in the armpit may indicate swollen lymph nodes, which can occur due to infections, inflammation, or even malignancies. If you have recently had an infection, such as a cold or flu, this could be a benign cause. However, persistent swelling should be evaluated further.

3. Breast-Related Issues: Since you mentioned experiencing pain near the breast, it is crucial to consider breast-related conditions. While your mammogram results are normal, other issues such as fibrocystic breast changes, benign tumors, or even hormonal changes can cause discomfort in that area.

4. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome can lead to pain in the armpit area due to compression of nerves or blood vessels. This can result in pain, tingling, or numbness in the arm and shoulder.

5. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the armpit can be referred from other areas, such as the neck or shoulder. Issues like cervical radiculopathy can manifest as pain in the armpit region.


When to Seek Medical Advice
You should seek medical attention if:
- The pain persists or worsens over time.

- You experience additional symptoms such as fever, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats.

- There are changes in the breast, such as lumps, changes in size or shape, or unusual discharge.

- You notice any swelling or tenderness in the armpit that does not resolve.


Recommended Specialists
1. Primary Care Physician: They can perform an initial evaluation, take a detailed history, and conduct a physical examination. Based on their findings, they may refer you to a specialist.

2. Breast Specialist: If your symptoms are primarily breast-related, a breast specialist or surgeon may be appropriate for further evaluation.

3. Orthopedic Specialist: If musculoskeletal issues are suspected, an orthopedic doctor may be able to assess and treat any underlying conditions.

4. Neurologist: If nerve-related issues are suspected, a neurologist can help diagnose and manage conditions affecting nerve function.


Conclusion
In summary, while your mammogram results are normal, the symptoms you describe warrant further investigation to rule out any underlying conditions. It is advisable to start with a primary care physician who can guide you through the necessary evaluations and refer you to the appropriate specialist if needed. Early intervention can help address any potential issues and provide you with relief from your symptoms. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns.