Unusual Swelling in Armpit
I'm a 31-year-old male, standing 6 feet tall and weighing 170 pounds. I use a vape for cannabis but do not take any medications and have no previous medical issues. Currently residing in the USA. For approximately the past three months, I have noticed an unusual and at times painful swelling in my left armpit. Initially, I mistook it for an ingrown hair, as it would appear and then disappear before returning with increased intensity. Right now, it has developed into a somewhat firm mass that can be tender upon pressure. What troubles me is the sensation of "strings" extending from this mass; I become aware of them particularly when I lift my arms. It's akin to the way your skin feels slightly elevated after a light scratch, except this occurs beneath the surface. I apologize for the low-quality images; there seems to be a peculiar filter on imgur interpreting skin as inappropriate content. The most concerning aspect is that I can consistently feel the "lump and strings" whenever I stretch or elevate my arms. Any tension causes it to pull under the skin. I can't shake off the worry that this could be cancerous, although I also find it incredibly bothersome.
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 8:30:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a concerning and persistent issue with swelling and discomfort in your armpit area. While the symptoms you describe could be due to various benign conditions, it’s understandable that you are worried about the possibility of something more serious.
Explanation:
The swelling and firm mass you feel could be due to several non-cancerous causes, including:
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Lymphadenopathy: Swelling of the lymph nodes can occur due to infections, inflammation, or even reaction to nearby tissues. The sensation of "strings" might be due to the surrounding connective tissues or lymphatic vessels.
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Sebaceous Cyst: These are blocked glands that can become firm and tender, often felt beneath the skin.
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Infection: Conditions like abscesses can cause swelling and pain, which might align with your observation of occasional flare-ups.
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Muscle or tendon irritation: As your arms move, any tightness in muscles or inflammation in nearby tendons can cause unusual sensations.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in size, pain intensity, and other symptoms. Notably, watch for redness, warmth, or fever—these could indicate infection or inflammation.
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Self-Care: To alleviate discomfort, consider applying a warm compress to the area to ease tension and promote circulation.
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Avoid Strain: Limit activities that cause discomfort, especially lifting your arms frequently, to reduce irritation.
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Seek Medical Attention if Necessary: If the mass continues to grow, becomes increasingly painful, or if you experience additional symptoms like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, seek professional guidance for a proper evaluation. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies or a biopsy to rule out any serious conditions.
Your concerns are valid, and it's important to address them effectively. Remember, many cases like this resolve with simple interventions, so stay hopeful and proactive. If you have further questions or updates regarding your condition, feel free to share!
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