What causes pain under the right armpit?

Sep 13, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Qifeng

Introduction

In general, pain under the right armpit may be caused by factors such as muscle or soft tissue injury, neuritis, lymphadenitis, periarthritis of the shoulder, or pleurisy. The muscles and soft tissues around the armpit are prone to injury, such as strains, sprains, or muscle pain. This type of pain is usually localized and may result from physical activity, trauma, or improper posture. It can often be relieved with rest and warm compresses.

Under normal circumstances, pain in the right armpit may be caused by muscle or soft tissue injury, neuritis, lymphadenitis, shoulder periarthritis (frozen shoulder), pleurisy, and other factors. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Muscle or Soft Tissue Injury

The muscles and soft tissues around the armpit are prone to injury, such as strains, sprains, or muscle pain. This type of pain is usually localized and may result from physical activity, trauma, or improper posture. It can be relieved through rest and heat application.

2. Neuritis

Neuritis can be triggered by poisoning, metabolic disorders, infections, or exposure to cold. In the early stages, patients may experience a burning or stabbing pain under one armpit, occurring intermittently. As time progresses and the condition worsens, the stabbing pain becomes more pronounced and persistent. Patients may take medications such as carbamazepine tablets or amoxicillin capsules as directed by a physician.

3. Lymphadenitis

Bacterial invasion, cold exposure, or upper respiratory tract infections may easily lead to lymphadenitis, causing symptoms such as swollen and painful lymph nodes. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications like amoxicillin capsules or cefalexin dry suspension. Maintaining warmth in daily life can also aid recovery.

4. Shoulder Periarthritis (Frozen Shoulder)

Excessive long-term physical activity, prolonged poor posture, shoulder joint fractures, or exposure of the shoulder to cold may predispose individuals to shoulder periarthritis, leading to adverse symptoms such as shoulder pain, stiffness, and armpit pain. Patients may take medications such as acetaminophen tablets or nimesulide tablets under medical guidance to improve symptoms.

5. Pleurisy

Chest trauma, pathogen infection, or underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis may lead to pleurisy, resulting in discomfort including chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, armpit pain, and muscle aches. Patients may take oral medications such as rifampicin tablets or isoniazid tablets as prescribed to alleviate symptoms.

Patients should seek timely medical attention and receive etiology-based treatment according to medical advice.

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What should I do if my armpits are slightly sore after the first time shaving underarm hair?

After the first underarm hair removal, if the armpits feel slightly painful, measures such as applying aloe vera gel, cold compresses, moisturizing, topical medications, and oral medications can be used for treatment. It is recommended that patients follow medical advice for symptomatic management. After shaving underarm hair, apply a thick layer of aloe vera gel and gently massage the area with the pads of your fingers to promote local absorption. Aloe vera gel has soothing and calming effects and can also enhance the skin's cell self-repair ability.