What causes armpit pain?
Sep 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, armpit pain may be caused by hormonal changes, muscle strain, cold exposure, mammary gland hyperplasia, or mastitis. If you experience any discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. In daily life, it is important to maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the breasts, engage in appropriate exercise, perform gentle massage or physical therapy, and ensure timely warmth.
Under normal circumstances, armpit pain may be caused by hormonal fluctuations, muscle strain, cold exposure, mammary gland hyperplasia, or mastitis. If any discomfort occurs, it is important to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Hormonal Changes
Women may experience breast tissue stimulation due to hormonal changes before menstruation or during pregnancy, leading to breast tenderness that radiates to the armpit and causes armpit pain. It is advisable to maintain regular sleep patterns and avoid staying up late.
2. Muscle Strain
Prolonged upper-limb activities or intense exercises such as weightlifting or swimming may lead to muscle strain, resulting in armpit pain. Applying local heat or cold compresses may help alleviate discomfort.
3. Cold Exposure
Remaining in cold environments or wearing insufficient clothing may cause the armpit area to become chilled, leading to poor circulation of qi and blood, stagnation, and subsequent pain. Regular physical activity can help strengthen the body's resistance.
4. Mammary Gland Hyperplasia
Endocrine imbalances may lead to mammary gland hyperplasia, causing breast swelling and pain that may radiate to the armpit, accompanied by sensations of distension. Patients may take medications such as Xiaoyao Pills, Rupixiao Granules, or Xiaojin Pills under a doctor’s guidance.
5. Mastitis
Mastitis can result from milk stasis or bacterial invasion of breast tissue. Inflammatory irritation leads to breast swelling and pain that may extend to the armpit, possibly accompanied by pus formation. Patients may be treated with antibiotics such as Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, Cefalexin Capsules, or Azithromycin Dispersible Tablets under medical supervision.
In daily life, it is important to maintain breast hygiene, engage in moderate exercise, perform gentle massage or physical therapy, and ensure timely warmth and protection from cold.
