Unexplained Bump on Arm: When to Seek Medical Attention?

There is a lump on the arm?

Hello doctor, I have a lump on my arm that is not visible but can be felt by touch.
It doesn't hurt when pressed, and sometimes it appears slightly indented.
Should I see a doctor about this? Additionally, I sometimes have to take deep breaths to feel like I'm getting enough air, and occasionally I experience sudden sharp pains in my heart that make me hesitant to breathe.
Is this something that requires medical attention? I also suffer from severe motion sickness; is there a treatment for that?

YY, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/02

Dr. Wu Fangcan reply Family Medicine

1.
A hard lump in the arm could potentially be a lipoma, which is mostly benign and may also occur in other parts of the body.
For caution, it is advisable to seek the opinion of a surgeon or dermatologist.

2.
Sometimes, these symptoms may arise due to a lack of exercise or high stress levels.
If there are symptoms such as shortness of breath or night sweats, medical attention should be sought.
Further evaluation can be done by a family medicine or internal medicine physician.
3.
Motion sickness medication should be taken in advance; once symptoms have occurred, there is no effective way to alleviate them.
For detailed information regarding motion sickness, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist or a family medicine physician.

Reply Date: 2015/09/02

More Info

When it comes to an unexplained bump on your arm, it’s essential to pay attention to certain factors that can help determine whether you should seek medical attention. The bump you described, which is not painful and can only be felt when touched, may be a benign condition such as a lipoma (a fatty tumor), a cyst, or a lymph node. However, the fact that it sometimes appears to be indented could indicate that it is fluctuating in size or shape, which is worth noting.

In general, you should consider seeing a doctor if:
1. The bump changes in size, shape, or color: If you notice any significant changes, it’s a good idea to have it evaluated.

2. It becomes painful or tender: While you mentioned that it is not painful, any new pain or tenderness could indicate an underlying issue that needs attention.

3. You experience other symptoms: If the bump is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue, you should definitely seek medical advice.

4. It persists for an extended period: If the bump does not resolve within a few weeks, it’s prudent to consult a healthcare professional.

Regarding your other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing deeply and experiencing sudden chest pain, these are more concerning. The sensation of needing to take deep breaths and the chest pain could indicate a variety of issues, ranging from anxiety to more serious conditions like a cardiac issue or pulmonary problem. It’s crucial to take these symptoms seriously, especially if they are recurrent or worsening.
You should seek medical attention promptly if:
1. The chest pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms: Such as shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or radiating pain to the arm, neck, or jaw.

2. You have a history of heart disease or risk factors: If you have a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other risk factors, it’s essential to get evaluated.

3. The breathing difficulty persists: If you find yourself frequently struggling to breathe or feeling like you can’t get enough air, this warrants immediate medical attention.

As for your motion sickness (暈車), there are several strategies and treatments available. Over-the-counter medications like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine can be effective. Additionally, non-pharmacological approaches such as sitting in a position where you can see the horizon, avoiding heavy meals before travel, and using acupressure bands can help alleviate symptoms. If your motion sickness is severe and impacts your daily life, consider discussing this with your healthcare provider for tailored advice and potential prescription options.

In summary, while the bump on your arm may not be an immediate cause for concern, the accompanying symptoms of chest pain and breathing difficulties are significant and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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