What are the common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. How can you identify the symptoms of armpit lymph node swelling. What treatments are available for swollen lymph nodes under the arm.

Understanding Lymph Nodes and Their Function

Lymph nodes are crucial components of the body’s immune system. These small, bean-shaped structures filter lymph, a clear fluid that carries oxygen to cells and removes waste products. When the body encounters an infection or injury, lymph nodes may swell as they work harder to filter out unwanted cells. This swelling is particularly noticeable in certain areas, including the neck, armpits, and groin.

What exactly happens when lymph nodes swell? As the nodes enlarge, they may become painful and tender to the touch. In some cases, the swelling is visible under the skin, while in others, it’s only detectable through palpation. This reaction is the body’s way of ramping up its defense mechanisms against potential threats.

Viral Infections Causing Armpit Lymph Node Swelling

Various viral infections can trigger lymph node swelling in the armpit. Some common culprits include:

• Varicella-zoster virus (causing chickenpox)
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella
• HIV

These infections often produce additional visible symptoms, such as rashes. However, some viral conditions can cause swollen lymph nodes without other apparent signs.

Influenza and Its Impact on Lymph Nodes

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory infection that can cause lymph node swelling. Unlike other viral infections, flu symptoms tend to be more severe and develop suddenly. Common flu symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headaches
• Fever or chills

Can the flu lead to complications? While most people recover from the flu without treatment, it can sometimes cause serious complications, especially in high-risk groups such as young children, adults over 65, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying health conditions. For these groups, antiviral medication may be necessary to prevent severe symptoms.

Infectious Mononucleosis and Lymph Node Swelling

Infectious mononucleosis, also known as mono or glandular fever, is another viral infection that can cause lymph nodes in the neck and armpits to swell. Mono symptoms include:

• Extreme fatigue
• Fever
• Swelling in the liver, spleen, or both
• Sore throat
• Body aches
• Headaches

How long does mono typically last? Most people recover from mono in 2-4 weeks, although some may experience symptoms for longer. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers can aid in recovery.

Bacterial Infections and Armpit Lymph Node Swelling

Bacterial infections can also lead to swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. Two notable examples are cellulitis and Lyme disease.

Cellulitis: A Skin Infection Affecting Lymph Nodes

Cellulitis occurs when bacteria penetrate the skin and infect deeper layers, often through an area of broken skin. This infection can cause nearby lymph nodes to swell. Symptoms of cellulitis at the infection site include:

• Pain and swelling
• Skin sores
• Warm skin
• Redness (may be less apparent in people with dark skin tones)
• Hardening of the skin
• Fluid collection under the skin

How is cellulitis treated? Doctors typically prescribe antibiotics to treat cellulitis. In severe cases or when intravenous antibiotics are required, hospitalization may be necessary.

Lyme Disease and Its Effect on Lymph Nodes

Lyme disease, spread through tick bites, can cause swollen lymph nodes as an early symptom. This swelling may appear 3-30 days after the tick bite. Other early signs of Lyme disease include:

• A circular rash resembling a bull’s-eye at the bite site
• Fever
• Chills
• Joint or muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Headaches

Why is prompt treatment important for Lyme disease? Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial for preventing the progression of Lyme disease and potential long-term complications.

Other Bacterial Infections Causing Lymph Node Swelling

While less common in the armpit area, other bacterial infections can cause lymph node swelling in different parts of the body. These include:

• Chlamydia
• Syphilis
• Tuberculosis

These infections typically affect lymph nodes in areas such as the neck or groin rather than the armpit.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Swollen Lymph Nodes

While many cases of swollen lymph nodes resolve on their own, certain situations warrant medical attention. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

• Lymph node swelling persists for more than two weeks
• The swollen area is red, tender, or warm to the touch
• You experience unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever
• The swollen lymph node is hard or doesn’t move when you touch it
• You have difficulty swallowing or breathing

These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical evaluation.

Diagnostic Approaches for Swollen Lymph Nodes

When evaluating swollen lymph nodes, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic techniques:

• Physical examination: The doctor will palpate the affected area to assess the size, texture, and tenderness of the lymph nodes.
• Medical history review: This helps identify potential causes or risk factors for lymph node swelling.
• Blood tests: These can detect infections, autoimmune disorders, or other conditions that may cause lymph node enlargement.
• Imaging studies: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI may be used to visualize the affected lymph nodes and surrounding tissues.
• Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of the lymph node tissue may be removed for microscopic examination.

The choice of diagnostic tools depends on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and the healthcare provider’s clinical assessment.

Treatment Options for Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit

The treatment for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit varies depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Self-Care Measures

For mild cases of lymph node swelling, self-care measures may be sufficient:

• Apply warm compresses to the affected area
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Rest and avoid strenuous activities
• Stay hydrated

Medical Treatments

If an infection is the cause, medical treatments may include:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antiviral medications for certain viral infections
• Drainage of any abscesses that may have formed

Treatment for Underlying Conditions

In some cases, swollen lymph nodes may be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as cancer. Treatment in these instances will focus on addressing the underlying cause and may involve:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Surgical intervention
• Immunotherapy

The specific treatment plan will depend on the diagnosis and the individual patient’s circumstances.

Preventing Lymph Node Swelling in the Armpit

While it’s not always possible to prevent lymph node swelling, certain measures can reduce the risk:

• Practice good hygiene to prevent infections
• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system
• Avoid close contact with individuals who have contagious illnesses
• Seek prompt treatment for any cuts or wounds to prevent infection

By taking these precautions, you can help minimize the chances of developing swollen lymph nodes in your armpit and other areas of your body.

Long-Term Outlook and Monitoring of Armpit Lymph Node Swelling

The prognosis for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit largely depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, particularly those related to common infections, the swelling subsides as the body fights off the infection. However, for more serious conditions, ongoing monitoring and treatment may be necessary.

Follow-up Care

After initial treatment, your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up appointments to monitor the lymph node swelling. These visits may involve:

• Regular physical examinations
• Periodic imaging studies to track changes in lymph node size
• Blood tests to monitor for signs of infection or other conditions
• Adjustments to treatment plans as needed

When to Be Concerned About Recurring Swelling

If lymph node swelling in your armpit recurs frequently or persists despite treatment, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. This could indicate:

• An underlying chronic condition that needs further investigation
• The need for a different treatment approach
• A more serious health issue that requires specialized care

Remember, while swollen lymph nodes can be concerning, they are often a sign that your body is effectively fighting off an infection or other threat. By staying informed and seeking appropriate medical care when needed, you can ensure that any lymph node swelling is properly addressed and managed.

Swollen lymph nodes in armpit: Symptoms, causes, and treatment

Lymph nodes are part of the body’s immune system. A swollen lymph node in the armpit may be a sign of a bacterial or viral infection, an injury, or a serious health condition, such as cancer.

The possible causes of lymph node swelling range in severity from common infections that typically resolve on their own to more serious conditions, such as lymphoma.

In this article, we look at why lymph nodes swell, the most common causes of this symptom, and when to consult a doctor.

When a person has an infection or injury, the lymph nodes may swell as they start to filter unwanted cells from the lymph.

Lymph is a watery fluid that carries oxygen to the cells and transports waste products away from them. It also contains white blood cells, which help fight infections.

As the lymph nodes begin to work harder to remove waste, they can enlarge. This enlargement is more common in certain areas of the body, including the neck, armpits, and groin.

A swollen lymph node may be painful and tender to the touch. In some cases, it will be visibly enlarged under the skin, but in others, it will be smaller or deeper in the body and only apparent when touching the area.

Many viruses can cause swollen lymph nodes. These include:

• varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox
• measles
• mumps
• rubella
• HIV

Infections with these viruses usually produce other visible symptoms, such as a rash.

However, other viral conditions can cause swollen lymph nodes with no other visible symptoms. These include:

Influenza (flu)

The flu is a respiratory infection that can also cause the lymph nodes to swell. The symptoms of the flu are similar to those of other respiratory viruses, but they tend to be more severe. They also often develop suddenly rather than gradually.

Other symptoms of the flu include:

• fatigue
• sore throat
• a cough
• runny or stuffy nose
• body aches
• headaches
• fever or chills

Vomiting and diarrhea can also occur, but these symptoms are more common in children.

While a person has the flu, they should stay at home and rest, avoiding contact with others. Most people recover from the flu without treatment, but it can sometimes cause complications.

People who are most at risk of complications include:

• young children
• adults over 65 years of age
• pregnant people
• people with underlying health conditions

People in these groups may need antiviral medication to prevent severe symptoms. Getting a flu vaccine each year is the best way to avoid getting the flu.

Infectious mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis, also known as mono or glandular fever, is the result of a viral infection. It can cause lymph nodes in the neck and armpits to swell. Mono also causes symptoms such as:

• extreme fatigue
• fever
• swelling in the liver, spleen, or both
• sore throat
• body aches
• headaches

Mono will eventually go away on its own. Most people recover in 2–4 weeks, but some experience symptoms for longer. Resting, drinking fluids, and taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can help during recovery.

Bacterial infections can also cause the lymph nodes to swell. Some examples of infections that could affect the nodes in the armpit include:

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a skin infection. It occurs when bacteria penetrate the skin and infect the deeper layers, potentially as a result of an injury that led to an area of broken skin.

Cellulitis may cause nearby lymph nodes to swell. For example, an infection in the arm may cause the lymph nodes in the armpit to enlarge. Common symptoms of cellulitis at the infection site include:

• pain and swelling
• skin sores
• skin that is warm to the touch
• redness, which may be less apparent in people with dark skin tones
• hardening of the skin
• fluid collection under the skin

Additional symptoms of cellulitis may include:

• fever or chills
• body aches
• muscle and joint pain
• vomiting and nausea
• fatigue

Doctors treat cellulitis with antibiotics. A person may need to stay in the hospital if the infection is severe or they require IV antibiotics, which a doctor administers directly into a vein.

Lyme disease

Lyme disease spreads via the saliva of certain species of tick, which are small insects that can bite humans. One of the early symptoms of Lyme disease is swollen lymph nodes, which may appear 3–30 days after the tick bite occurred.

Other early symptoms include:

• a circular rash resembling a bull’s-eye at the site of the bite
• fever
• chills
• joint or muscle aches
• fatigue
• headaches

A doctor will typically prescribe antibiotics to treat Lyme disease. Anyone who suspects that they have this condition should seek medical attention promptly.

Other bacterial infections that can cause swollen lymph nodes include:

• chlamydia
• syphilis
• tuberculosis

However, these infections typically affect the lymph nodes in other areas of the body, such as the neck or groin. They are less likely to cause swelling in the armpits.

Bacteria and viruses are not always responsible for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. Other possible causes include:

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of several autoimmune conditions that can cause swollen lymph nodes.

RA occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing stiffness, pain, and warmth.

A 2019 review article states that RA affects the lymph nodes, reducing their capacity to drain fluid from nearby inflamed joints. This impairment may lead to local lymph node enlargement.

Doctors treat RA with medications that reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Physical therapy may also help. In some cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to replace or repair affected joints.

Cancer

In some cases, swollen lymph nodes are a symptom of cancer.

Cancer that begins in the lymphatic system is known as lymphoma. There are several types of lymphoma, including:

• Hodgkin lymphoma
• non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• non-Hodgkin lymphoma in children
• Waldenström macroglobulinemia
• lymphoma of the skin

In addition to swollen lymph nodes, the symptoms of lymphoma can include:

• unintentional weight loss
• feeling tired
• fever
• night sweats

Other types of cancer that have spread to the lymph nodes, such as breast cancer, can also cause swelling in these parts of the body.

The type and stage of the cancer, as well as a person’s age and overall health, will affect what treatment doctors recommend.

However, it is worth remembering that there are many causes of swollen lymph nodes that are not related to cancer.

A doctor can determine the cause of swollen lymph nodes in the armpit and recommend the best treatment. They may ask about the person’s symptoms, review their medical history, and perform a physical examination.

In some cases, a doctor may also carry out diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, a biopsy, or medical imaging.

In most cases, the swelling in lymph nodes under the armpit will resolve within 1–2 weeks.

If the swelling lasts for longer or worsens over time, a person should speak with a doctor.

Swollen lymph nodes can be painful. While a person receives medical treatment, they can also try certain techniques at home to ease any tenderness.

For instance, a person can apply a warm compress to reduce pain. They can run warm or hot water over a washcloth and wring it mostly dry before placing it on the swollen lymph node.

People can also take OTC pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve pain. A person should talk with their doctor if they are not sure what medications are best for them.

Anyone with swollen lymph nodes in their armpit should talk with a doctor. Swollen lymph nodes have many potential causes, and a doctor can rule out possibilities that require prompt treatment, such as Lyme disease.

Although swollen lymph nodes often result from an infection, it is important for a person to schedule an appointment if:

• the swelling continues for more than 2 weeks or worsens after this time
• the lump feels hard or does not move when a person touches it
• there is swelling in lymph nodes in more than one area — for example, in both the neck and armpits
• the swollen lymph nodes are not painful
• there are other symptoms, such as fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss

A person should also consult their doctor about swollen lymph nodes if they have previously had cancer treatment.

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can be a sign of common viral infections, such as the flu or mono. They can also occur as a result of a bacterial infection or RA. In some cases, swollen lymph nodes are a symptom of cancer.

Warm compresses and OTC pain medication can ease any pain or tenderness. However, a person should talk with a doctor if they have swollen lymph nodes with no clear cause.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit: Pictures, Treatments, & More

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit may indicate an infection, injury, or disease that requires medical attention. However, it’s usually not a sign of cancer.

Read on to learn what it means to have swollen lymph nodes in your armpit.

Lymph nodes are critical parts of the immune system. They filter foreign substances from the body and store white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes fight disease and infections.

You have hundreds of small bean-shaped lymph nodes throughout the body, including in your:

• neck
• armpit
• chest
• abdomen
• groin

A lymph node in the armpit that’s only slightly enlarged may be difficult to see, but you may be able to feel it with your fingers. A serious infection or other condition may cause one or more nodes to swell enough that you can see a lump under your skin.

Keep in mind that the armpit contains many nodes, so swelling could occur in the front, center, or back of the armpit, as well as along part of the upper arm near the armpit.

In addition to being swollen, an affected lymph node may also be sore or tender to the touch.

Share on PinterestCT scan showing swollen lymph nodes in armpit.
Ahn, R. W., Mootz, A. R., Brewington, C. C., & Abbara, S.

Share on PinterestSwollen lymph nodes in the armpit due to infection.
Casa nayafana/Shuuterstock

Share on PinterestEnlarged lymph nodes in the armpit due to tuberculosis.
Zay Nyi Nyi/Shutterstock

To check for a swollen lymph node in the armpit, lift your arm slightly and gently place your fingers into your armpit. Press your fingers against the center of the armpit and then around the front and back of the armpit along the chest wall. Do the same on the other side.

Lymph nodes exist in pairs on each side of the body, and typically only one node in a pair will be swollen. By comparing both sides, it may be a little easier to tell if one is enlarged.

If lymph nodes are swollen in more than one part of the body, the condition is known as generalized lymphadenopathy, which suggests a systemic illness. Localized lymphadenopathy refers to swollen lymph node(s) in one location.

The location of swollen lymph nodes usually suggests the cause of the problem. A swollen lymph node in the neck, for example, is often a sign of an upper respiratory infection.

When lymph nodes in the armpit become swollen, your body may be fighting a viral infection, or any of several other conditions. The potential causes of a swollen lymph node in the armpit can include:

Viral infection

Common viruses can trigger swelling in one or more lymph nodes in the armpit. They can include:

• flu
• common cold
• mononucleosis

More serious viral infections that may cause lymph node enlargement include herpes, rubella, and HIV.

These viruses may also cause lymph nodes in the neck to become enlarged, too. In many cases, rest, fluids, and time are all that you can do while your immune system fights off the virus. For certain viral infections, like HIV, antiviral medications may be necessary.

Bacterial infection

Some common bacterial infections on the arm or surrounding chest wall, including staphylococcus and streptococcus, can lead to an enlarged lymph node in the armpit and elsewhere in the body. Antibiotics and rest are usually enough to overcome a bacterial infection.

Immune system disorder

Flare-ups of autoimmune disorders, like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause temporary enlargement of the lymph nodes in an armpit. Treatments vary, depending on the cause, but anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers, and in serious cases, immunosuppressant drugs may be necessary.

Cancer

Certain types of cancer directly involve the lymphatic system. Lymphoma actually originates in the lymph glands. Leukemia, a cancer of the blood cells, can cause inflammation and swelling of the lymph nodes.

Cancers that form in other organs or tissue may spread to the lymphatic system. Breast cancer, for example, can cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the armpit.

An enlarged lymph node near a cancerous tumor is often suspected of also being cancerous. Cancer treatments vary and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and other approaches.

Medications

In rare cases, certain medications can cause lymph nodes to swell. Among them are:

• ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, and vasodilators to treat high blood pressure
• anticonvulsant drugs, including phenytoin and primidone
• anti-malarial drugs, including quinidine
• uric acid reducers, like allopurinol

Switching medications or adjusting doses may be enough to reduce side effects like lymph node enlargement.

As your body starts to successfully fight off the infection, the swelling in your lymph nodes should start to diminish.

With a typical bacterial infection, for example, a course of antibiotics should start to relieve lymph node swelling and other symptoms within a few days. A stubborn viral infection could take longer.

If your other symptoms are subsiding, but your lymph nodes remain swollen, tell a health professional. You may need additional treatment or a follow-up exam to see if there are other reasons your lymph nodes are still enlarged.

Because swollen lymph nodes are more often signs of an infection, rather than cancer, you may be inclined to dismiss swelling as a temporary symptom that’ll subside as you get over your infection. In many cases, that’s exactly what will happen.

If you’re unsure whether to seek a medical evaluation for swollen lymph nodes, these signs may be reasons to see a medical professional:

• One or more lymph nodes are swollen for no obvious reason.
• The swelling has lasted or gotten worse over a period of 2 or more weeks.
• The affected node feels hard and immovable when you press on it.
• The swollen lymph nodes aren’t painful.
• You have swollen lymph nodes in separate areas, like the armpit and groin.
• You have other symptoms, like:
  • redness or fluid oozing around the node
  • fever
  • cough
  • night sweats
  • unexplained weight loss
  • pain elsewhere in your body

Swollen lymph nodes typically get better once your illness has been treated or goes away on its own. To support your immune system as it responds to the infection or illness, you can rest and drink plenty of fluids. If you are prescribed medication, be sure to take it according to the prescribing doctor’s instructions.

If you feel discomfort or pain due to your swollen lymph node, you can try applying a warm compress to ease discomfort. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), may also help reduce pain.

If your pain gets worse or does not resolve, you may need to consult a doctor for additional treatment or testing.

Most of the time, a swollen lymph node means your body’s immune system is doing its job in responding to an infection or other health problem. That also means you’re dealing with an illness or injury that may require treatment.

If you’re battling a cold, for instance, and you notice slight swelling of a lymph node in your armpit, pay attention to it for a few days and see if the swelling goes down when you start feeling better.

Unexplained swelling or the presence of other serious symptoms should prompt a visit with a health professional for a more complete evaluation.

Armpit enlargement, causes and treatment

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Symptoms

Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the armpits

Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the armpits is a symptom of the lymphatic system, occurs in response to local and pathological processes in the body, and is characterized by an increase, induration, and soreness of the lymph nodes. An increase in the lymph nodes of the armpit of any nature is called axillary lymphadenopathy. Accompanies immune and inflammatory diseases, infections, tumor lesions.

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Causes of swollen lymph nodes under the arms

Swollen lymph nodes under the arms is a common symptom of axillary lymphadenitis. The disease develops subject to the presence in the body of a primary acute or chronic focus of inflammation. Infection with the flow of lymph, blood or contact spreads in the body, affects the organs of the lymphatic system. Inflammation of the lymph nodes – a pre-morbid condition or a symptom of diseases such as:

• acute respiratory viral infections;
• inflammatory processes of ENT organs: tonsillitis, sinusitis, sinusitis, otitis media;
• infections of the skin and mucous membranes: purulent wounds, stomatitis, actinomycosis, boils, eczema;
• bacteria, viral infections: diphtheria, mumps, scarlet fever, varicella;
• dental diseases: pulpitis, caries, osteomyelitis;
• venereal pathologies: syphilis, gonorrhea.

Among other reasons why enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit area, the following diseases and pathological conditions are considered:

• dysfunction of the endocrine glands;
• blood disorders;
• malignant and benign tumors of lymphoid tissue;
• axillary metastases;
• breast cancer in women;
• contusion in the armpit, chest;
• diseases of the immune system: dermatomyositis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus;
• drug reaction;
• chronic diseases of the digestive system.

Article checked

Konovalova G. N.

Neurologist • 44 years of experience

Publication date: March 24, 2021

Review date: January 20, 2023

Article content

Types of armpit enlargement

Quote from CMRT specialist

Ulyanova Daria Gennadievna
Neurologist • Chiropractor • Experience 24 years

Quote from CMRT specialist

Swollen armpit lymph nodes can be associated with inflammatory or infectious processes, as well as the development of other serious diseases, and therefore requires an urgent visit to the doctor. It is important to take into account the accompanying symptoms and conduct an up-to-date diagnosis, which will allow an accurate diagnosis.

Ulyanova Daria Gennadievna
Neurologist • Chiropractor • Experience 24 years

Methods of diagnosis

If the axillary lymph nodes are enlarged, it is necessary to contact a lymphologist or phlebologist, or a therapist can be used to establish the underlying disease, the causes of its development. In some cases, you may need to consult an endocrinologist, an infectious disease specialist, an oncologist, a pulmonologist, a mammologist, or a specialist in another field.

The doctor conducts an external examination, during which he assesses the condition of the skin, size, density, cohesion, clarity of the boundaries of the lymph nodes in the armpits, and the severity of pain on palpation.

According to the indications, the diagnostic plan includes diverse examinations:

• laboratory tests: blood and urine tests, biochemical blood tests, bacteriological culture of the material, tuberculin test, diagnostic puncture, biopsy of the lymph nodes;
• equipment: chest x-ray, ultrasound scan of the lymph nodes of the armpit, mammography, computed tomography of the abdominal cavity.

Specialists of the CMRT clinics, in order to identify the reasons for the enlargement of the lymph nodes in the armpits, prescribe the following studies:

Which doctor to contact

Primary diagnosis of the reason why the lymph nodes in the armpits are enlarged is carried out by a therapist. After the diagnosis, he will either prescribe treatment or refer you to a surgeon, mammologist or other doctor with a narrower specialization.

Treatment of enlarged lymph nodes in the armpits

The course of treatment is selected in the case of a particular patient, and depends on the diagnosis. In the early stages and in the non-tumor nature of enlarged lymph nodes, conservative therapy is recommended. To stop infectious and inflammatory processes, to destroy the primary focus of infection, antibacterial drugs are prescribed in accordance with the type of pathogen. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics help to get rid of pain and inflammation, normalize body temperature. Thermal procedures, compresses with Vishnevsky’s ointment, immunostimulants, vitamins are shown.

In case of a purulent form of lymphadenopathy of the axillary lymph nodes, the patient is hospitalized, the purulent focus is opened, followed by drainage and antiseptics. In the presence of indications and tumor forms, surgical removal of enlarged lymph nodes is indicated.

In CMRT clinics, to treat the causes of enlarged lymph nodes in the armpits, conservative therapy and surgical treatment are used:

Consequences

Prevention of swollen lymph nodes under the arms

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Article checked

Moskaleva V.V.

Editor • Journalist • Experience 10 years

We publish only verified information

The materials posted on the site are written by authors with medical education and specialists from the CMRT company

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The reason for the enlargement of the lymph nodes in the axillary region

Symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes

Inflammation of the regional axillary lymph collector accompanies all infectious processes of the mammary gland, primarily lactational mastitis and purulent skin infections: boil, carbuncle, abscess. In the axillary region, a moderately enlarged, but very painful lymph node or several nodes are determined; with advanced inflammation, pus may form that breaks out.

Our expert in this area:

Sergeev Petr Sergeevich

Deputy chief physician for medical work. Oncologist, surgeon, chemotherapist, Ph.D.

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Often, with an infection, the symptoms of lymphadenopathy come to the fore, while there are no obvious inflammatory manifestations in the mammary gland itself. Lymphadenopathy may develop a week or two after the process has completely healed in the breast tissues.

Symptoms of tumor lymphadenopathy

Since the axillary lymph nodes are closest to the mammary gland, if there is a neoplasm in the gland, there is a high probability of the appearance and development of cancer cells in them. This happens so often that in the classification of breast cancer they are not counted as metastases – the symbol M, although formally this is metastasis.

On the one hand, at an early stage of cancer, the axillary lymphatic collector protects against further spread of cells throughout the body, but when a tumor is formed already in the node itself, it becomes an independent source of the disease.
With a cancerous lesion in the armpit, it is determined from one enlarged lymph node to a bumpy conglomerate of several large nodes soldered together. Pain occurs with a significant increase in the tumor and its compression of the nerve trunks passing in the axillary region.

Diagnosis of the pathology of the axillary region

In most cases, an increase in lymph nodes can already be detected during examination.

Ultrasound or X-ray examination of the anatomical zone will show the actual size and number of pathological foci. In inflammatory lymphadenopathy, this diagnosis is quite sufficient until a final diagnosis is made.

The true state of the collector in breast cancer is clarified only upon receipt of a cellular analysis during puncture with a cytological examination of the material obtained. But only a histological examination after surgery or a biopsy can reliably show whether there are cancer cells in the lymph node. Histological examination is mandatory if a tumor enlargement of the axillary lymph node is suspected.

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Treatment

Treatment depends on the primary process in the breast, usually secondary lymphadenopathy.