Lump Discovered Near Armpit
I am a 24-year-old female, standing at 5'6" and weighing 230 lbs. My current medications include 100mg of Spironolactone, 60mg of duloxetine, 50mg of topiramate, and 500mg of metformin. I have several health issues, including hidradenitis suppurativa, dyshidrotic eczema, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and irregular menstrual cycles. For the past year, I've experienced the appearance of a small bump close to my armpit every few months. It's approximately the size of a pea and tends to appear and disappear, typically lasting between 1 to 3 weeks. Recently, however, I've noticed that this time it is red and causes a bit of discomfort. It feels like a small stone beneath the skin. Could this possibly be a lymph node, or might it be something else entirely? I also have a cyst in my breast that behaves in a similar fashion, disappearing and reappearing in sync with my menstrual cycle.
Answers (1)
8/7/2025, 3:41:05 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a lump near your armpit, especially given your ongoing health issues. While it's possible that the lump could be a lymph node or even a small cyst, the fact that it’s red and causing discomfort suggests it may be inflamed or infected. Let's break this down:
Explanation
Lymph nodes can swell in response to infections or inflammation nearby, so your lump might indeed be a reactive lymph node. Given your health history, including hidradenitis suppurativa, which can cause skin changes and lump formations, this might also play a role. The cyclical nature you describe, particularly in relation to your menstrual cycle and the breast cyst, indicates there could be hormonal factors involved in these appearances as well.
Next Steps
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Monitor the Lump: Keep an eye on the size, color, and any discomfort associated with the lump. If it changes significantly (grows larger, stays longer, or becomes more painful), that’s important to note.
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Gentle Care: Avoid tight clothing or anything that could irritate the area. You might find applying a warm compress helps soothe discomfort.
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Self-Assessment: Palpate the area to see if you notice any consistency changes. Is it firm, soft, or rubbery? Does it feel connected to your skin or move freely?
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Take Notes: Keep a record of when the lump appears, how long it stays, and any symptoms accompanying it (pain, redness, etc.). This information will be helpful for any future assessments if necessary.
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Discuss with a Healthcare Professional: Given the changes in color and discomfort, and your complex health history, consider bringing this information to your next appointment for a thorough evaluation. It’s particularly important to ensure that everything is progressing well with your known conditions.
By being observant and documenting your experiences, you’ll be better prepared for discussions with your healthcare provider if needed. You’re not alone in dealing with these symptoms, and addressing them with your doctor can bring you peace of mind.
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