Persistent Painful Lump in Armpit — Ultrasound Diagnosis Indicated Tear but Discomfort Continues
Age/Sex: 27 Female Medical Background: Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and early thyroid antibodies. Recent blood tests show normal results. I do not smoke and am currently making an effort to quit vaping. I maintain a healthy diet, exercise every day, and generally consider myself to be in good health. Symptoms & Timeline: - A few months prior, I discovered a painful lump located under my armpit. - The lump is mobile and its form varies; at times it appears round, while at other moments it takes on a longer or thicker appearance, or becomes oddly shaped. - Touching it, lowering my arm, or pressure from my bra intensifies the pain. - There are no visible signs of redness or infection. Medical Evaluations: - An ultrasound was conducted. - The physician’s assistant indicated a possible musculoskeletal tear and recommended taking Aleve or ibuprofen for relief while monitoring the situation. - I have followed this advice, but the discomfort persists. - The ultrasound results did not indicate any issues with lymph nodes or any worrisome conditions. Current Condition (Months Later): - The pain persists, and the lump remains unchanged. - It is still movable, occasionally feeling swollen, and its shape continues to alter. - This condition disrupts my daily activities and comfort. My Concerns/Questions: - How long is it typical for a musculoskeletal tear to produce this level of pain? - Does my description align with a musculoskeletal tear? - Should I seek additional imaging, such as an MRI, or consider obtaining a second opinion? Thank you for any insights or suggestions you can provide!
Answers (1)
9/5/2025, 1:50:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a persistent and uncomfortable issue, and it's understandable to be seeking clarity and relief. Let's break this down:
Key Points:
- Persistent Pain: Musculoskeletal tears can vary in recovery time, but ongoing pain after several months can be concerning.
- Symptoms Monitoring: Your description suggests ongoing irritation, which is not uncommon for musculoskeletal issues, but it may also indicate the need for further evaluation.
- Next Steps: Consider monitoring your symptoms, exploring additional imaging, and possibly seeking a second opinion, especially if your current symptoms interfere significantly with daily life.
Explanation:
A musculoskeletal tear such as those affecting muscles or soft tissue can indeed cause chronic pain. The discomfort may persist for several weeks or even months, depending on the nature of the injury and your body's healing response. The fact that the lump is movable and varies in shape can align with a benign condition, but persistent pain warrants further investigation—in particular, since there are no signs of infection or worrisome imaging findings.
Actionable Steps:
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Symptom Tracking: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms including pain intensity (on a scale from 1-10), any activities that worsen or alleviate the pain, and any new symptoms that arise. This can help identify patterns and provide crucial information for healthcare providers.
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Pain Management: Since you’ve been advised to take Aleve or ibuprofen, you might continue this for short-term relief. Ensure to follow the recommended dosages. If you notice that medications are not helping or you're experiencing side effects, this is worth mentioning to your doctor.
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Consider MRI: Discuss the possibility of obtaining an MRI with your healthcare provider. Given that you have persistent pain without improvement, an MRI can provide a more detailed image of soft tissues that an ultrasound may not fully capture, allowing better insight into any ongoing issues.
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Second Opinion: If symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeking a second opinion from another physician, perhaps a specialist in musculoskeletal conditions or a rheumatologist who can provide a fresh perspective on your situation and suggest additional tests if necessary.
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Physical Activity Adjustment: While maintaining physical activity is great, consider modifying your routine to avoid any exercises that exacerbate your pain. Sometimes gentle stretching or physical therapy can aid recovery without adding strain.
It's clear that you're taking proactive steps toward understanding and managing your discomfort, and I encourage you to continue doing so. Make sure to advocate for your health, and don't hesitate to reach out for further evaluations if the pain continues to disrupt your life.
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