Unexplained Bump on My Inner Elbow: Seeking Insight
I am a 31-year-old Caucasian female, standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 152 pounds. Approximately two months ago, I noticed an unusual bump on my left forearm, which seemed to develop suddenly coinciding with an IV contrast procedure and multiple blood draws. The bump is noticeable primarily when my arm is extended. Recently, an ultrasound was conducted, but it revealed no underlying issues. Two different doctors have evaluated the bump—one suspected golfer's elbow while another proposed the possibility of a lipoma. The area feels somewhat dense, and I've been experiencing intermittent bone and nerve pain in my elbow and upper and lower arm, particularly around the site of the bump. There is also a subtle diagonal swelling on my inner elbow extending along the side of my arm, leaving me uncertain about its nature. Initially, I visited the emergency room twice due to unusual sensations of pain radiating towards my armpit. However, I found no abnormalities in that area, such as swelling. Tests for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) returned negative results. Additionally, I underwent a D-Dimer test, all troponin levels were normal, and my EKG showed no issues. Although my white blood cell count was slightly elevated, as were the monocytes, I have not experienced any fever or notable signs of infection. Regarding my medical background, I have familial combined hyperlipidemia and a potential case of chronic pancreatitis, which remains asymptomatic following a previous episode of acute necrotizing pancreatitis. I do not consume alcohol but do smoke. My daily medications include atorvastatin (40 mg), fenofibrate (67 mg), famotidine (20 mg), and a probiotic. Any insights or advice on this situation would be greatly appreciated.
Answers (1)
7/19/2025, 4:40:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been through a lot with the unexplained bump on your inner elbow, and I appreciate you providing such detailed information. You have taken significant steps in addressing your symptoms and concerns, and I’ll do my best to guide you.
Main Points:
- The bump on your elbow could be due to various reasons, including a lipoma or irritation from previous medical procedures.
- You’ve had thorough evaluations, including ultrasounds and tests for serious conditions like DVT, and results are largely reassuring.
- Ongoing discomfort and sensations should be monitored, especially if they change or worsen.
Explanation:
The bump you described, along with the other symptoms you're experiencing, can occur for several reasons. Given that two doctors have suggested different potential causes—golfer's elbow (which refers to tendinitis) and a lipoma (a benign fatty tumor)—it could be a form of localized irritation or a benign growth. The fact that tests have ruled out serious conditions is a good sign, but the intermittent pain and swelling still warrant attention.
Your history of familial combined hyperlipidemia and chronic pancreatitis is also relevant, but they are not typically linked to localized soft tissue lumps. Nicotine use can affect healing and circulation, so that's also worth addressing.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the bump, pain levels, and associated sensations. Note if the bump changes size or if you have new symptoms (e.g., increased pain, redness, warmth).
-
Limit Irritation: Avoid activities that put strain on your elbow (like repetitive flexing or extending), which can exacerbate pain and swelling. Use ice packs to reduce any inflammation for short periods.
-
Self-Care Measures: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help manage discomfort, but talk to a pharmacist about what would be appropriate based on your current medications.
-
Follow Up: If your symptoms do not improve, consider asking your healthcare provider about further imaging studies or alternative diagnoses. Asking about a referral to a specialist, such as an orthopedic doctor or a rheumatologist, may provide additional insights.
-
Lifestyle Adjustments: Since you mentioned smoking, consider seeking resources or support to help you quit. This can improve overall health and potentially aid in recovery.
-
Stress Management: Given the uncertainty and stress from your symptoms, engaging in stress-reducing activities such as light exercise (as tolerated), yoga, or mindfulness may help with your overall well-being.
Stay attentive to your symptoms and ensure you have open communication with your healthcare providers about your ongoing concerns. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need further clarification or if things change!
Related Questions
Navigating Health Concerns: A Young Woman's Plight with Chronic Migraines and Stress
To summarize a very complex situation, last spring in 2025 was exceptionally challenging for me. I faced overwhelming stressors, including family deaths, eviction, and my parents splitting up. This turmoil led to chest pains so severe that I had to visit the emergency room because I couldn’t breathe deeply without experiencing intense pain. The doctors attributed the issue to psychological causes, but I continued to suffer from pain and instances of fainting due to the stress, which worsened as yet another family member was diagnosed with cancer. My psychiatrist suggested medication, and I started on Lexapro and Concerta, which improved my condition somewhat, even though I remained fatigued and felt like I was merely surviving. By the end of August, I contracted a severe case of bronchitis that caused me to experience fevers even while doing laundry. It seemed I was verging on pneumonia, prompting the prescription of prednisone and other steroid medications. Thankfully, I began to recover quickly, but soon after, I was plagued by persistent headaches and an overwhelming sense of paranoia that someone was out to get me. After another emergency room visit, the physicians informed me that, although my symptoms—such as fever, intense pain, night sweats, sensitivity to light, ear pressure, and a stiff neck—were alarming, they were likely just severe migraines that should eventually fade. Unfortunately, they didn’t. I returned to urgent care for further treatment, received antibiotics, and was advised to consult a neurologist. While the antibiotics provided some relief, my symptoms intensified. My primary care physician eventually prescribed sumatriptan, a medication intended to alleviate migraine pain, but instead, it exacerbated the headache. For the next two to four weeks, I endured an exceptionally difficult time, facing numerous strange symptoms that felt worthy of immediate attention, yet each visit concluded with a migraine diagnosis and a waiting period for my neurology appointment. My frustrations pushed me to contemplate risky alternatives for relief, but I resisted, feeling utterly hopeless and unable to cope. I sought an ear, nose, and throat specialist to rule out sinus issues, which turned out to be fine. A painful spot under my jaw led me to suspect nerve involvement, and I visited the emergency room again due to experiencing stroke-like symptoms (including mild left arm weakness, extreme headache, and minor speech issues). Sadly, I was again told it was merely a headache, and the IV medications were ineffective. During my annual check-up, my primary care provider was unfamiliar with my ongoing issues but discovered an enlarged lymph node in the lower left side of my neck and a cyst on my thymus after conducting a soft tissue scan. She reassured me that there was no need for concern and suggested waiting for my neurology visit or getting my eyesight checked. Despite my yellower complexion, increasing stiffness, and joint pain, I accepted her recommendation. While I mentally adapted to the chronic pain, which was always present, it affected my ability to concentrate and engage in daily life. I tried consuming plenty of lemon juice and engaging in lymphatic drainage massages, which provided transient relief and halted my yellowing skin. Now, in the present, I've noticed a peculiar, raised red bump on the side of my foot. It’s hard, tender, and smaller than a dime, without any accompanying rash. It has persisted for a couple of weeks without causing pain while walking. Additionally, more lymph nodes in my neck have become swollen, I have experienced difficulty swallowing, and I occasionally choke on air. My lungs feel heavier with a diminished sense of smell, though I don't have the thick mucus typical of a cold. The headaches, however, are reemerging, sharper than before, which is a concerning development. Throughout all of this, my blood pressure has remained within a low yet stable range, and my blood tests and CT scans have shown no significant issues. I haven’t consumed anything excessively that might raise concern, including food or drugs. Am I truly facing a serious health crisis? Should I prioritize getting another appointment, or do I need to rush to urgent care? I'm scheduled to see the neurologist in about a month, and I'm wondering if I should ask my primary care provider for some preliminary tests like blood work or an MRI beforehand. If so, what specific questions should I prepare for my neurology visit? I believe the pain has a genuine physical basis, although my anxiety definitely amplifies the experience.
Injury to the Sciatic Nerve
At 25 years old and weighing 135 pounds, I am currently taking naproxen and Lyrica to manage my sciatic nerve injury. The pain in my right leg has made it incredibly difficult for me to remain upright. It’s been two weeks since I first sought treatment; I consulted a physician who advised medication and attended a physiotherapy session. Initially, I experienced some relief after the appointment, but unfortunately, the pain returned the following day—even the prescribed home exercises exacerbated my discomfort. Just yesterday, I attempted the cobra pose, along with the flossing technique, which only heightened my pain. I find it nearly impossible to stand for more than a few seconds before the discomfort becomes intolerable. Additionally, I have an appointment with an osteopath on Tuesday, but I can't shake off my worries— is it normal to still struggle with walking after two weeks? Although I am experiencing some numbness in my toes, I haven’t encountered any loss of bladder or bowel control, worsening numbness, or weakness in my legs, so I feel stable in that regard. Nonetheless, I fear the possibility of never fully recovering and being left with a lasting disability. The pain is overwhelming, adding to my anxiety about the future.
Inquiry Regarding Metronidazole Use for Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis
I am a 32-year-old female, measuring 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 248 pounds. My current medications include Vyvanse at a dosage of 40mg, a medication for asthma, vitamin D, a 325mg iron supplement, and as of now, I am also taking amoxicillin to treat strep throat. I am about to begin using Metronidazole 0.75% Vaginal Gel, with a total of 70 grams available. The instructions indicate that I should administer 5 grams vaginally twice a day for seven days, followed by twice a week for a period of two months. During the initial treatment phase when I will apply the gel twice daily, I anticipate abstaining from sexual activity. However, once I transition to the twice-weekly application, is it permissible to engage in sexual intercourse? I would normally consult my physician about this matter, but she is currently unavailable, and the nurse is also out of the office, which is quite frustrating.
Understanding the Increased Pain in My Foot While Reclining
At 30 years old, I am nearing the five-week mark since undergoing surgery on my metatarsals. I've encountered a troubling issue: I can’t seem to find comfort when lying down, whether it’s with my foot raised or lying flat. My pain level escalates to a severe 10 out of 10, unless my foot is making contact with the floor or I dangle my leg off the side of the bed so that my toes touch the ground. Is this situation typical for someone in my circumstances? Are there any suggestions that might assist me in getting a better night's sleep?
Persistent Pain in Right Shoulder and Arm After Lifting
Hello, everyone! I’m a 23-year-old male and have been engaged in weightlifting for several years now. Recently, I’ve been struggling with ongoing discomfort in my right shoulder and arm, which I haven’t been able to accurately identify. The pain manifests during particular movements, especially with lateral raises or when my arm is raised to shoulder level while rotating my wrist. Certain pressing and pulling activities can also provoke this discomfort. Rather than feeling sharp, it’s a deep, nagging sensation that sometimes seems localized in the front area of the shoulder or at the biceps tendon, and at other times it feels more like it’s situated between the shoulder and upper arm. Fortunately, there’s no numbness or tingling involved. This issue began while I was working out. I decided to take a break for around two months, but when I returned, the pain persisted. After consulting a physician, I was diagnosed with bicipital tendinitis. Since then, I’ve reduced my upper-body workouts, completely steering clear of shoulder exercises and heavy lifting, and have begun a gentle rehabilitation regimen focusing on external rotations, pendulum movements, and scapular exercises. Despite adhering to this routine for about a week, I haven’t experienced any noticeable improvement. Is it typical for this type of tendon injury to require an extended period for recovery? At what point should I consider diagnostic imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRI? Additionally, are there frequent rehabilitation errors that might impede the healing process? I appreciate your insights in advance!