What causes lumps under the armpit, and could they turn into a strange illness?
Oct 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Folliculitis is an inflammation caused by pyogenic bacteria invading the hair follicles after damage to the skin barrier function in the axillary region. This inflammation can lead to the appearance of lumps under the arm, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as pain and redness. It is recommended to treat with medications such as flucytosine tablets, nystatin tablets, or fluconazole capsules under medical guidance. Lymphadenitis is an inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by bacterial infection.
Under normal circumstances, lumps in the armpit are not indicative of a strange or unusual illness and may be caused by factors such as fat accumulation, puberty development, bacterial infection, folliculitis, or lymphadenitis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for targeted treatment. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Fat Accumulation
As body weight increases, fat in the armpit area may gradually accumulate and thicken, forming noticeable lumps under the arm. These typically do not cause other significant symptoms. It is recommended to engage in regular physical exercise and maintain a healthy body weight.
2. Puberty Development
During puberty, hormonal changes can increase the activity of sweat and sebaceous glands in the armpit, potentially leading to clogged hair follicles or glands and resulting in armpit lumps. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as menstrual irregularities and mood swings. Maintaining good personal hygiene and regularly cleaning the armpit area is advised.
3. Bacterial Infection
Bacterial infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, can trigger deep skin inflammation, leading to abscesses or boils that appear as armpit lumps. These are often accompanied by pain and fever. It is recommended to use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, clarithromycin capsules, or metronidazole tablets under a doctor’s guidance.
4. Folliculitis
Folliculitis occurs when the skin's protective barrier in the armpit is compromised, allowing pus-forming bacteria to invade the hair follicles and cause inflammation. This results in lumps under the arm and may also cause pain, redness, and swelling. Treatment with medications such as flucytosine tablets, nystatin tablets, or fluconazole capsules should be carried out under medical supervision.
5. Lymphadenitis
Lymphadenitis is an inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by bacterial infection. The inflammatory response can lead to swollen lymph nodes, forming lumps in the armpit, often accompanied by symptoms such as fever and redness. It is recommended to follow a physician's instructions when using medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefradine capsules, or penicillin V potassium granules.
Daily attention to personal hygiene, including frequent bathing and changing clothes, is important to reduce the risk of developing such conditions.
