What does it mean if there is a painful lump under the armpit when squeezed, and what should I do?
Nov 14, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, a painful lump under the armpit may be caused by conditions such as furuncles, folliculitis, eczema, mammary hyperplasia, or enlarged lymph nodes. Improvement can be achieved through treatments like medication or surgery. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to promptly visit a hospital and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, maintaining good personal hygiene is important.
Generally, a painful lump under the armpit may be caused by furuncles, folliculitis, eczema, mammary gland hyperplasia, or lymphadenopathy. These conditions can be improved through medication or surgical treatment. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to promptly visit a hospital and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Furuncles: If the skin becomes infected with Staphylococcus aureus, furuncles may develop, potentially causing lumps under the neck or armpits, accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, heat, and pain. Under a doctor's advice, medications such as ichthammol ointment, fusidic acid cream, or procaine penicillin for injection may be used for improvement.
2. Folliculitis: Excessive sebaceous gland secretion can lead to clogged hair follicles, making folliculitis more likely to occur, resulting in painful lumps under the armpits. It is recommended to consult a doctor and use medications such as fusidic acid cream, compound polymyxin B ointment, or cefuroxime axetil granules for relief.
3. Eczema: Eczema may be associated with improper diet, environmental factors, or infections, which can cause lumps to appear in the armpit area, possibly accompanied by itching and pain. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as clobetasol propionate cream, zinc oxide ointment, or calamine lotion may be used for improvement.
4. Mammary Gland Hyperplasia: If estrogen secretion in the body becomes imbalanced, mammary gland hyperplasia may occur, causing small lumps under the armpits, which may also be accompanied by pain. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Rupixiao Capsules, Xiaoyao Pills, or Hongjin Xiaojie Tablets for improvement.
5. Lymphadenopathy: Lymph nodes are immune organs in the body, and inflammation often causes axillary lymph node enlargement. If an infection occurs in the upper limbs or breasts, bacteria may spread to the axillary lymph nodes, causing lumps accompanied by symptoms such as fever and swelling. Under a doctor's guidance, a biopsy procedure or fine needle aspiration may be performed to remove the enlarged lymph node and alleviate symptoms.
In daily life, attention should be paid to personal hygiene, keeping the armpit area clean and dry. Avoid using irritating cosmetics or bathing products. Use mild, gentle skincare products, such as those containing amino acids or silicone-free formulas, to reduce irritation to the underarm skin.
