Armpit Lump – Causes
Inflammation of lymph nodes causes armpit lumps. Several factors might contribute to this condition. Frequently armpit lumps are harmless conditions. Swollen lymph node could even be the symptom of serious ailments such as cancer. It is therefore advisable not to ignore armpit lumps when they appear.
Infection
Infections are largely responsible for producing armpit lump. Damaged and irritated skin is usually the site of infections. Lump may appear on your underarm if your underarm skin is stresses due to shaving. The incidence of underarm cyst is greater among first time shavers. Excess use of antiperspirants, applied for lessening underarm sweating, could irritate your underarm, producing cysts or small lump. Large and painful armpit lumps may be produced by abscesses present underneath the skin surface. Painful lumps are associated with bacterial, viral and fungal infections.
People who have pet cats might develop lumps in the armpit if the cat scratches, bites or licks you. Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the lymph nodes. The enlarged lymph node might heal naturally or antibiotics might be prescribed for treating the condition. Occasionally the fluid in the lymph node is drained with a needle and syringe.
Lymphadenitis, a bacterial infection of the lymph nodes, might cause armpit lumps. While antibiotics are prescribed for treating the infection, cold compress could help to lessen the pain and inflammation.
Vaccination side effect
Rarely swollen lymph nodes are side effects of vaccinations. Small pox, typhoid, measles, mumps and rubella vaccines occasionally produce armpit lumps.
Breast cancer symptom
In women, armpit lumps could be symptom of breast cancer. The cancer cells tend to enlarge the lymph nodes. Women with armpit lumps should not neglect this condition.
Cancer symptom
Besides breast cancer, armpit lumps could be symptoms of certain cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.
Breast infection
Armpit lumps can even develop from breast infection. Although lumps caused by breast infection are benign, to prevent complications medical intervention in required especially for pregnant and nursing women. Bacteria might enter the breast through cracked nipples, causing breast infection.
Symptoms of underlying diseases
People suffering from chicken pox, shingles or AIDS can have armpit lumps.
