Bump on My Arm - Seeking Advice
Hello everyone! I'm a 28-year-old female, and I'm currently not on any medications. I’m reaching out for some insights while I gather funds for a proper medical evaluation. Recently, I've noticed a bump on my arm that I first spotted between September and October 2024. At that time, it was quite small—about the size of a regular pimple—but it seems to be growing gradually and is becoming a bit concerning. To provide a bit more detail, it isn't painful and doesn’t cause any itching, which is a relief. I really hope it's nothing serious; I can’t shake off the fear that it could potentially be skin cancer or something along those lines. I fully intend to seek medical advice as soon as I have the means to do so.
Answers (1)
7/20/2025, 7:30:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about a bump on your arm, especially since it has been growing. Here’s a brief overview of the situation and actionable steps you can take while you prepare for a medical evaluation.
Main Points:
- A growing bump on the skin can have various causes, such as a cyst, lipoma, or other benign growths, but it’s wise to keep an eye on changes.
- Monitoring the bump and noting any new symptoms is essential.
Explanation:
The bump you described, especially since it’s painless and doesn’t itch, may not be serious, but it's good that you're keeping track of it. Skin lesions can be harmless, like sebaceous cysts or lipomas, but it’s sensible to diagnose any changes, particularly if it's growing. Skin cancer is less common in younger individuals, but it can happen, especially if there's a change in size, shape, or color.
Next Steps:
-
Keep a Symptom Diary: Document the size of the bump, any changes in appearance, or any new symptoms (e.g., changes in color, texture, or any pain) over time.
-
Avoid Irritation: Try not to pick at or irritate the bump, which can lead to inflammation or infection.
-
Sun Protection: If exposed to sunlight, apply sunscreen to avoid any potential exacerbation from UV rays, which can worsen skin conditions.
-
Save for Evaluation: Prioritize seeing a healthcare provider for a proper examination when you’re able to. Early evaluation helps address any concerns effectively.
-
Stay Informed: If you notice rapid growth, changes in color, or any new symptoms, consider seeking help sooner if possible.
Remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel worried, but by monitoring the situation and planning for a medical consultation, you’re taking proactive steps for your health. If you have any more questions or need further advice, feel free to ask!
Related Questions
Injury to My Finger from Playing Football
After a recent attempt to catch a football, I ended up injuring my middle finger. It bent awkwardly during the game, and now, two days later, it has developed bruising. Unlike my other fingers, this one can't fully straighten out. I have some mobility in the finger as a whole, but any attempt to move the tip causes pain and discomfort. I can still move the rest of my finger without issue. Should I consult a doctor about this injury? What steps should I take next?
Concerns Regarding Neck Pain and MRI Results
At the age of 23, standing at 5 feet 3 inches and weighing 122 pounds, I am currently taking Buspar. I struggle with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) along with multiple unresolved issues related to muscles, nerves, and circulation. Recently, I underwent an MRI for my neck due to several troubling symptoms including muscle weakness, episodes of vertigo, pain in my neck and occipital region, frequent headaches, and discomfort radiating to my arms. The results indicated a ‘nonspecific loss of vertebral artery flow voids.’ My primary care physician, who tends to be rather inattentive, reviewed my scan and stated that everything appeared normal, merely suggesting I consult a neurologist regarding my headaches. I’m deeply concerned by their comment that there’s nothing significant; this feels like it could be a critical factor in understanding my other health issues. My neck is persistently painful, regardless of the position I’m in, and I sometimes struggle to support it. I find that even minor movements can easily lead to discomfort or pain, such as simply turning my head down or sideways, which triggers neck pain and headaches in the occipital area. I’m apprehensive about scheduling a neurology appointment only to face dismissal once more. What steps should I take next?
Significant Decrease in Average Resting Heart Rate
Greetings everyone! I’m a 33-year-old woman, weighing 67 kilograms and standing at 156 centimeters tall, and I've observed a noticeable decline in my resting heart rate. Over the past five weeks, it has decreased from an average of 70 beats per minute to approximately 55 beats per minute, and it appears to be continuing this downward trend. Seven weeks ago, I ceased using Mounjaro because my general practitioner advised me to stop, believing that my health was already in a good place as I am trying to conceive. Prior to that, I had been on gl1p for three years, starting at a weight of 64 kilograms. Since then, I've added a little weight. At the moment, I’m taking Vitamin D, folate, fish oil, and CoQ10 in my efforts to conceive. Additionally, I’m not certain if it’s related, but I underwent oral surgery for wisdom teeth extraction under general anesthesia three weeks ago. The nurse indicated before the surgery that I had low blood pressure, which I don’t recall ever having recorded previously. Initially, I thought it might just be a one-time occurrence, but after the surgery, the nurse observed the same issue and had to monitor me a few times afterward. I haven’t experienced any other concerning symptoms. My exercise routine hasn’t improved since I stopped the medication, which likely contributed to some weight gain. Today, my resting heart rate stands at 54 beats per minute, down from last week’s average of 60 beats per minute, which feels rather low to me. Should I be concerned about this change? I don’t feel any different—no signs of fatigue, breathlessness, or dizziness—yet I’m contemplating whether I should seek further evaluation.
54-Year-Old Male Experiences Eating Challenges, Esophageal Growth Detected During Examination
The father of my significant other has recently been experiencing challenges when trying to eat. Following several mild prescriptions that did not alleviate his symptoms, his physician recommended a scope to examine his throat and esophagus. According to the findings shared with my partner, a growth of an unspecified size was identified. Currently, my partner remains optimistic that the growth is non-cancerous. She mentioned that he has lost some weight—less than 10 pounds—and he has scheduled both a biopsy and an MRI to further assess the situation.
What Could Be Causing My Foot Pain? Is It a Fracture?
I’m a 20-year-old female who leads a very active lifestyle and exercises frequently. About six weeks ago, I began experiencing a severe throbbing pain beneath the ball of my right foot, which radiates into my toes. There’s no visible discoloration that might indicate a fracture, although the area appears somewhat swollen. I’ve tried various treatments like ice, heat packs, and taking breaks, but the relief is only short-lived. The slightest touch causes excruciating pain, and I’m unable to bear weight on the ball of my foot. Walking has become quite painful, and I find myself resting my foot nearly all day. I can’t continue living this way indefinitely. Could this be a sign of a fracture, or is it possible that I've simply strained a muscle severely? I’m unsure about the best approach to alleviate the pain and would love any insights you might have. I'm feeling quite anxious about who to consult for this issue and uncertain about the severity of my condition. Any advice or opinions would be greatly appreciated.