Concerns About a Persistent Lump
Hello, I’m an 18-year-old female. Approximately a month ago, I noticed a hard lump located beneath my left armpit. Although it does not cause me any pain, it has not decreased in size and remains constant. The lump is not easily noticeable; I only found it while shaving and noticed an unusual firmness in that area. I can actually grasp the lump to some extent. Currently, I do not experience any other symptoms. However, I do have an autoimmune condition, specifically Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, of which I am still gaining insight. I am uncertain if this lump is a sign of something related or if it warrants concern. Additionally, I undergo blood tests every few months, and my recent results were completely normal.
Answers (1)
6/24/2025, 11:01:06 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a new lump, especially given your autoimmune condition. A hard lump beneath the armpit can have various causes, some benign and others that might need attention. Based on your description, the lump could be a lymph node, a cyst, or due to something else entirely, but the fact that it’s firm, painless, and stable is generally reassuring.
Explanation:
Lumps under the armpit can occur due to several reasons including:
- Lymph nodes: These can become enlarged due to infections or inflammation.
- Cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in various tissues.
- Fibroadenomas: These are benign tumors that may form in breast tissue and can feel firm.
Given your age and lack of other symptoms, such as pain or significant change in size, the lump is likely not of immediate concern. However, it's good to be aware and monitor any changes.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Lump: Keep an eye on the size, shape, and texture of the lump over the next couple of weeks. Take note of any changes.
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Self-Examine Regularly: Regularly check your armpits and nearby areas to notice any new lumps, bumps, or changes.
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Evaluate Symptoms: If you start to experience symptoms like pain, swelling, fever, or changes in the lump's size or texture, this would be a signal to seek further evaluation.
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Consult a Healthcare Provider: While it may not be urgent, if the lump remains unchanged after a month or if you have persistent concerns, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider during your next visit. Given your autoimmune history, they can provide personalized insight.
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Stay Informed: Since you are learning more about your Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, maintaining communication with your healthcare team about any new symptoms or findings is important for your overall management.
Take care of your health, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need further support.
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