OpenHealth Q&A

It's understandable to be concerned about an unusual sensation, especially one that persists despite thorough evaluations. The sensation you describe under your left armpit could stem from several benign causes, particularly since both the ultrasound and your physician's examination did not reveal any abnormalities.

Explanation

The sensation of a "lumpy" feeling in your armpit that becomes noticeable with pressure might be attributed to a few things:

• Muscle Strain or Tension: If you've had any recent physical activity, this could lead to tightness or tension in the chest or upper back muscles, resulting in unusual sensations.
• Nerve Irritation: It's possible to have a pinched nerve in the neck or upper back which can radiate sensations to the upper chest and armpit area.
• Fibrocystic Changes: Sometimes, benign changes in breast or surrounding tissue can feel lumpy or cause sensations, especially in men, although this is less common.
• Anxiety or Stress: Emotional factors can often manifest as physical sensations, including strange feelings in various parts of the body.

Next Steps

1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when you feel the sensation, its intensity, and any associated activities (e.g., exercise, stress). Note if it worsens or any new symptoms appear.

2. Gentle Stretching: Engage in gentle stretching exercises for your neck and shoulder area. This can help alleviate any nerve tension. Simple stretches like tilting your head from side to side or gently rolling your shoulders can be beneficial.

3. Pain Relief: If the sensation is uncomfortable, consider over-the-counter pain relief options such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following dosage instructions.

4. Relaxation Techniques: Since stress can amplify physical sensations, try incorporating relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, to see if this alleviates the symptom.

5. Follow Up: If the sensation changes significantly, becomes more painful, or if you notice any new symptoms like weakness or numbness in the arm, consider revisiting your doctor for further evaluation.

Taking these steps can help you manage the sensation while you monitor any changes. It’s good that you’re being proactive about your health, and I encourage you to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider if you have further concerns.