Pain under the right armpit can be a common complaint for many individuals. There are a variety of causes for this type of discomfort, ranging from minor issues to more serious health conditions. If you are experiencing pain under your right armpit, it is important to pay attention to any accompanying symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary.
One possible cause of pain under the right armpit is simply muscle strain or overuse. This is often seen in individuals who participate in sports or other physical activities that involve repetitive arm movements. The muscles in your armpit can become strained and sore, causing discomfort.
Worried about PAIN UNDER RIGHT ARMPIT? This article covers various causes, from muscle strains to infections, and more serious conditions like cancer. Learn what to look for and when to seek help.
Key Takeaways
- Pain under the right armpit can arise from various causes including muscle strain, swollen lymph nodes, and nerve compression, necessitating a careful diagnosis.
- Infections, both bacterial and viral, as well as hormonal changes and contact dermatitis, are common contributors to armpit pain, highlighting the importance of hygiene and prompt medical intervention.
Muscle Strain and Overuse
Muscle strain is a frequent culprit behind pain under the right armpit. This kind of pain often results from overuse or injury, particularly through activities that involve lifting, pulling, or throwing. Whether you’re an athlete or someone who engages in heavy lifting, the repetitive motion can lead to a strained muscle in the upper limb.
The pain from a muscle strain is usually localized and can be quite intense. Injuries to muscles like the pectoralis major or coracobrachialis are common causes of this discomfort, particularly around the shoulder joint. The symptoms can range from a mild ache to sharp pains, making it difficult to move the arm without discomfort.
Treatment for muscle strains typically involves rest, application of ice to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy to strengthen the affected muscles. After the initial treatment period, applying heat can also help ease pain and promote healing. Over-the-counter pain medications may provide additional relief, helping you get back to your regular activities sooner.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, also known as axillary lymph nodes, can be another source of pain from painful lymph nodes. These multiple lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which helps fight infections by filtering harmful substances from the body, including white blood cells. When these lymph nodes swell, it often indicates an infection or an immune response.
Various infections, both viral and bacterial, can cause swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. Autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are also known to lead to lymph node swelling in this area. Persistent swelling beyond two weeks or accompanied by symptoms like fever could signal a more serious underlying issue.
If the swelling lasts for a long time or continues to grow, it may be a sign of something more severe, such as cancer. Conditions like Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non hodgkin’s lymphoma, as well as breast cancer, can manifest as swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, making it crucial to seek medical attention if you notice persistent or unusual swelling.
Nerve Compression
Nerve compression can also cause pain under the right armpit. Conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome or herniated discs are common causes of this type of pain. These conditions occur when nerves in the armpit area are compressed or pinched, leading to discomfort.
Symptoms of nerve compression include burning pain and persistent pain that can be difficult to ignore. This pain may radiate from the armpit to other parts of the upper limb, making it challenging to perform daily activities without discomfort.
Certain conditions like diabetes can exacerbate nerve compression by leading to nerve damage and affecting overall nerve health. Treatment options for nerve compression include physical therapy, a warm compress to ease pain, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve the pressure on the affected nerves.
Bacterial and Viral Infections
Bacterial and viral infections are common causes of pain under the right armpit. Bacterial infections such as folliculitis, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, can lead to painful inflammation in this area. Cellulitis, another bacterial infection, can cause the lymph nodes in the armpit to become enlarged.
Proper hygiene and the use of antiseptic cleansers can help prevent superficial bacterial infections like folliculitis. Viral infections, such as those caused by the herpes simplex virus or herpes zoster (shingles), can also lead to painful symptoms in the armpit. Shingles, in particular, can manifest as painful pustules and crusted lesions along the nerve pathways.
Symptoms of these infections may include painful boils if deep hair follicles become infected, or swelling of lymph nodes due to conditions like infectious mononucleosis. Preventive measures and prompt treatment with antibiotics or antiviral medications can help fight infection and alleviate these painful conditions, especially in cases of serious infection.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes, especially those associated with the menstrual cycle, can contribute to pain under the right armpit. These fluctuations can cause breast pain that extends to the armpit, known as cyclic breast pain. This type of pain typically occurs in the early stages of the menstrual cycle and may last for a few weeks.
Fortunately, symptoms of breast and armpit pain usually ease after the menstrual cycle ends. Understanding this pattern can help in managing the discomfort and differentiating it from other potential causes of armpit pain.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a common cause of pain and discomfort under the armpit. This condition occurs when the skin comes into contact with irritants or allergens, leading to a rash. Common irritants consist of deodorants and antiperspirants. Additionally, body washes, soaps, and laundry detergents can also cause irritation. Allergic contact dermatitis can be triggered by fragrances, essential oils, dyes, and shaving creams.
Symptoms include a rash that can be red or purple. You may also experience itchy, burning, or painful sensations along with blisters. The rash can develop rapidly after exposure to the irritant, causing significant discomfort and may indicate an allergic reaction.
Both types of contact dermatitis can be treated by avoiding the triggering substances and using topical steroids to reduce inflammation. Preventive measures include using fragrance-free products and washing the skin immediately after contact with known irritants.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin condition that can cause significant pain under the armpit. This condition leads to the development of painful nodules and abscesses in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the armpits and groin, including the affected area. The nodules can become abscesses, causing swelling and discomfort.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing this condition and preventing its progression. Without proper management, hidradenitis suppurativa can lead to recurring painful lumps and abscesses, significantly impacting the quality of life.
Breast Cancer Symptoms
Breast cancer is a serious condition that can cause pain under the right armpit. One of the early symptoms of breast cancer is swollen lymph nodes in the armpit or near the collarbone, indicating that the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. Other symptoms include breast pain or tenderness, particularly in cases of inflammatory breast cancer or Paget’s disease.
Changes in the texture of the affected breast, such as dimpling or a rash, can also be significant indicators of breast cancer. Immediate medical care should be sought if breast pain is persistent and does not improve with over-the-counter pain relief, or if accompanied by a high fever or signs of infection.
Changes in the appearance of the nipple, such as inversion or breast discharge, should also prompt urgent medical evaluation during a physical exam.
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders can cause pain under the right armpit due to inflammation. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis are known to contribute to this discomfort. These conditions can cause inflammation, leading to symptoms such as discomfort and pain in the armpit area.
Management of symptoms from autoimmune diseases often includes medications designed to reduce inflammation, causing inflammation, and control pain. Understanding the underlying cause of the pain is crucial for effective treatment and management.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Knowing when to seek medical attention for armpit pain depends is essential. Persistent or severe pain that does not improve with over-the-counter treatments should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. If the pain is accompanied by an armpit lump or soreness, it is crucial to cause armpit pain or underarm pain to seek medical evaluation to rule out serious conditions.
Conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa and acne inversa can worsen without intervention, leading to significant scarring and skin changes. Therefore, timely medical attention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.