Itchy and painful under the arms before menstruation
Jun 01, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
It is normal to experience itching and pain under the arms before menstruation, which may be due to physiological reasons or conditions such as mammary gland hyperplasia or mastitis; treatment should be selected based on the specific cause. Prior to the onset of menstruation, hormonal changes can affect the skin tissue under the arms, causing discomfort or pain. Besides these common causes, lymphadenitis or swollen lymph nodes could also be responsible.
It is normal to experience itching and pain under the arms before menstruation, which may be due to physiological reasons, or conditions such as mammary gland hyperplasia or mastitis. Treatment should be selected based on the specific cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:
I. Physiological Causes
Prior to the onset of menstruation, hormonal fluctuations may lead to breast tenderness. The underlying skin and tissue in the armpit area can also be affected, causing discomfort or pain. This typically resolves naturally after menstruation ends and does not require special treatment.
II. Pathological Causes
1. Mammary Gland Hyperplasia
Before menstruation, changes in estrogen levels can cause breast tissue to proliferate, leading to breast swelling, tenderness, and sensitivity. This may also result in pain and itching in the armpit area.
2. Mastitis
Mastitis often causes breast swelling and congestion. Hormonal changes during the premenstrual period may worsen this congestion, leading to radiating pain in the armpit. Treatment may include antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules or azithromycin tablets, taken as directed by a physician.
In addition to the above common causes, conditions such as lymphadenitis or enlarged lymph nodes may also be responsible. If discomfort persists, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment.
