OpenHealth Q&A

A Growing Bump: Seeking Answers for a Persistent Arm Mass

For the past 3 to 4 years, I’ve noticed a troubling development on my upper arm. I’m currently 18, and my mom first observed that the area was swelling noticeably, while the rest of my body remains the same. Since then, the growth hasn’t slowed down. Around two years ago, my mom took me to a coolsculpting clinic; she was curious about the mass on my arm. The staff, including both the receptionist and a doctor, were taken aback by how quickly it had expanded. They even reached out to other medical professionals in hopes of finding answers for me, but nobody was able to provide an explanation. At that time, the mass was only half its current size. Over the last three years, I’ve maintained a weight between 170 and 190 pounds after starting birth control, with my body fat distributed evenly—except for my arms. Standing at 5’5”, I was once considered for a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but that was possibly misdiagnosed. This growth on my arm has continuously caused issues like dark discoloration and recurrent rashes or infections. The only effective method I’ve found to manage the dark spots is using a harsh skin scrubber, which requires scrubbing vigorously for five minutes, sometimes followed by waxing to remove layers of thickened skin. Could this mass be breast fat? My mom speculates it might be, especially since I do have a larger bust, but it seems illogical since my breast size hasn’t changed over the past two years, nor has my weight. The growth on my arm remains soft and jiggly, surrounded by loose skin, forming a noticeable bump that even created a crease on my arm. I’ve consulted a doctor who suggested that it might be lymphoma, but they were also uncertain. I’ve committed to a consistent workout routine, including dumbbell exercises and upper body workouts almost daily for five months, yet I haven’t seen any reduction in size. Regardless of swimming and playing rhythm games—activities that engage my arms—the only observable difference is that my dominant side is marginally smaller. I realize now that targeted fat loss isn’t feasible through exercise alone, leaving me feeling rather helpless. I can’t help but wonder if it’s tied to puberty and hormonal changes, as I’ve been genetically unfortunate, resulting in localized fat accumulation. However, it baffles me that this growth appeared randomly during my teenage years and has continued expanding, especially since I haven’t gained weight in over a year. I’m unaware of the costs associated with plastic surgery in Canada, and given that I’m a young adult currently unemployed, that’s not a viable option for me. Are there any alternatives to address this issue without undergoing surgery, or will I have to live with this insecurity until I can save for a procedure? (Additional details: I’ve never smoked or used tobacco products, and the only medication I take is the prescribed birth control called "Alesse." Now weighing approximately 195 pounds, my diet primarily consists of fruits like apples, bananas, blueberries, and cherries, along with avocado, eggs, and honey on toast. I generally eat healthily, depending on my parents' cooking, having 1 or 2 meals and a snack daily. I enjoy drinking tea and exercise 2-3 times a week for about 10-20 minutes. Since turning 18, I consume alcohol infrequently, approximately 3-4 times a month, and my recent blood tests showed perfect health results otherwise.) I’m in need of guidance and support on this! (｡•́︿•̀｡)

Answers (1)

9/5/2025, 10:40:46 AM

OpenHealth AI

Main Points

You’ve been experiencing a persistent growth on your upper arm for several years that has caused you physical and emotional discomfort. There are concerns about the nature of this mass, and you’re seeking non-surgical options for management.

Explanation

The mass on your arm could be several things, including a benign growth like a lipoma (a lump of fatty tissue) or other conditions. Given that it’s been present for several years and is changing, it's important to have a clear understanding of what it is. Hormonal changes during puberty can sometimes lead to abnormal fat deposits, but it's unusual for a mass to develop and grow so noticeably over time. Additionally, dark discoloration and rashes could indicate irritation or another skin condition.

The consultation about lymphoma raises some concerns, and while it might seem daunting, lymphoma tends to present with a combination of symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes elsewhere, weight loss, or fever. Your doctor should be able to clarify this through appropriate tests, including imaging studies or a biopsy if needed.

Next Steps

1. Follow-Up with Healthcare Provider:

   • Schedule a follow-up appointment with a healthcare professional specialized in dermatology or a general practitioner. It's crucial to pursue a definitive diagnosis through imaging (like an ultrasound) or biopsies if warranted.

2. Monitor Symptoms:

   • Keep track of any new symptoms or changes in the mass, including pain, changes in size, or additional skin changes. Documenting these can aid your doctor in evaluating the situation.

3. Manage Skin Discomfort:

   • Instead of harsh scrubbing, try to keep the area clean and moisturized. Use gentle cleansers and consider consulting a dermatologist for creams that might help with the dark discoloration and skin irritation.

4. Explore Non-Surgical Options:

   • Inquire with your healthcare provider about non-surgical management strategies, such as corticosteroid injections, which can sometimes reduce the size of benign growths depending on the type, or physical therapy options to help improve your arm's overall appearance.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments:

   • While exercise may not directly target the mass, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can improve your overall body composition. Continue your workouts, prioritize a balanced diet, and aim for consistent hydration.

6. Support System:

   • Since this situation has caused you emotional distress, consider talking to someone about these feelings. This could be friends, family, or even a counselor, as emotional support can make a significant difference.

Your concern is completely understandable, and seeking answers is a positive step. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are potential avenues to explore that could help manage your situation better. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask.