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Noticing a Soft Growth Post-Injury?

7/20/2025, 9:10:27 AMMale25-34

Hello everyone! I trust you are all doing well. I am a 25-year-old female and recently, I discovered a soft growth beneath the surface of my skin on my upper arm. It doesn't cause any discomfort, is mobile, and has a texture that feels either rubbery or a bit grainy. It appears to be located quite close to the skin's surface and has a mass-like shape rather than being spherical. This past fortnight, I experienced an incident with my garage door, which resulted in my arm being trapped between metal bars for approximately twenty minutes. Following that, I sustained a few scratches and developed a bruise. I’m hopeful that what I’m feeling is merely a hematoma or possibly a lipoma that has yet to fully dissipate. However, I came across information suggesting that hematomas typically present as firm, whereas this particular lump is soft to the touch. As someone who often grapples with health anxiety, I'm feeling quite anxious that it might be indicative of a more serious condition.

ArthritisThyroid DisordersInternal Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

7/20/2025, 9:10:41 AM

OpenHealth AI

It’s understandable to feel anxious when noticing changes in your body, especially after an injury. Based on your description, the soft growth you’re feeling could likely be a result of the trauma you experienced. Let’s break down what you might be dealing with:

Key Points:

  • A soft growth following an injury can be due to several reasons, commonly a hematoma, lipoma, or possibly a benign cyst.
  • Your observation that it is soft, mobile, and painless is reassuring, as those are characteristics of many benign conditions.

Explanation: After an injury, it’s not unusual for your body to react by forming a bump or lump underneath the skin. When blood collects in an area (like in a hematoma), it can sometimes resolve into a soft, swollen area even weeks later. A lipoma, which is a benign fatty tumor, can also feel soft and is typically harmless. The fact that your growth is not causing pain and is mobile can suggest that it is not an immediate cause for concern.

Next Steps:

  1. Monitor the Growth: Keep an eye on the lump over the next few weeks. Note any changes in size, shape, or if it becomes painful.

  2. Apply Cold Compresses: If you're concerned about swelling or discomfort, using a cold compress on the area for 15-20 minutes every few hours can help reduce inflammation.

  3. Check for Other Symptoms: Pay attention to any additional symptoms, such as warmth, redness, or fever, which could suggest an infection.

  4. Keep a Diary: Document any changes in the lump, as well as your overall anxiety levels related to this situation. Noting patterns can help reduce anxiety and clarify the issue.

  5. Self-Care for Anxiety: Engage in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, to manage anxiety as you observe the lump.

If the growth persists beyond a few weeks, changes shape, increases in size, or causes discomfort, it would be prudent to seek a professional evaluation. In the meantime, focusing on these steps can help you manage your worries and monitor your condition effectively.

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