Armpit Lump: When Should I Be Concerned?

Finding a lump in the armpit is something that can happen to all of us on occasion and that, if we do not know its cause, can cause a disproportionate alarm. For this reason, it is essential to know the different types of lumps, as well as the causes of the lumps that appear in this part of the body.

In addition, it is also important to know what to do before this type of problem, since many people worry before they are necessary. One thing to keep in mind is that in 80% of cases, this problem is due to something normal and innocuous that you should not worry about.

The first thing you should do when detecting a lump under your arm is not to panic and go to the doctor so that he can determine the cause of that lump in the armpit. Next, we will see the different types of lumps in the armpit, although it must be borne in mind that they are not the only ones.

First cause of a lump in the armpit: furunculosis

It is nothing more than a simple inflamed follicle, which is commonly known as a ‘swallow’. It is something painful and frightening the moment we detect it.

Furunculosis is due to an infection of this sweat-producing gland, almost always caused by ingrown hair. With an infection, sweat cannot come out and bacteria begin to accumulate.

Although it is something innocuous, it can be very annoying. Sometimes it goes away on its own, but there are people who have a more serious infection and need appropriate treatment.

The normal thing is that the doctor prescribes antibiotics against the bacteria that have caused the infection. However, if the problem is not resolved, then a small intervention will be needed to remove the cyst.

To try to prevent a boil from forming, try to wash the underarm area regularly with a small exfoliation, so that the pore opens and the hair grows normally. Also try not to use very aggressive deodorants or with too many chemicals, because this very sensitive area can also be damaged.

Second cause: swollen glands

If a node is the cause of the lump, you should not be alarmed either.  A large number of lymphatic vessels are distributed in the armpit and, through them, the lymph is mobilized throughout the bloodstream, purifying, filtering and fighting to fight infections.

When we have the lowest defenses, the lymph nodes can become infected by an infection. In this way, the nodes become inflamed and the lump appears in the armpit. This inflammation can occur especially after skin infections or other infections caused by bacteria.

But what happens when we are told that we have a swollen lymph node? The first thing our doctor will do is perform a small analysis of this lymphatic fluid to find out the cause of the inflammation and inquire about the type of bacteria that has caused it.

This is done with a puncture in the lump itself in the armpit. For this procedure, the area is anesthetized, so the puncture is hardly painful. Once we have the result, we can find out the cause of the infection. In this way, the doctor will be able to indicate the most appropriate treatment.

Third cause of a lump in the armpit: lymphoma

Lymphoma represents the most serious case. However, it is the least common, although it is important to establish its cause as soon as possible in order to start treatment as soon as possible.

A lymphoma is a malignant proliferation of lymphocytes, which are cells that make up the immune system. It usually develops within the lymph nodes or nodes. However, it can sometimes occur in other tissues such as the liver or spleen. In other words, it is a cancer that takes place in the lymphatic tissue.

Today, there are many advances in science and it is possible to see the word cancer with less fear. However, it is true that the treatments are quite strong and the fight against the disease requires personal effort, encouragement and a lot of support from family and friends.

Conclution

Noticing a lump in the armpit is quite common, it can happen to all of us. You should not be alarmed and first of all, go to the doctor so that, whatever the origin of the problem, they can advise you on treatment and prevention measures.