What are the common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. How can you identify the symptoms of swollen lymph nodes. What are the available treatment options for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit.

Understanding Lymph Nodes and Their Function

Lymph nodes are crucial components of the body’s immune system, playing a vital role in filtering out harmful substances and fighting infections. These small, bean-shaped structures are scattered throughout the body, with concentrations in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. When the body encounters a threat, lymph nodes can swell as they work harder to filter out unwanted cells from the lymph fluid.

The lymphatic system, of which lymph nodes are a part, is responsible for transporting lymph – a watery fluid that carries oxygen to cells and removes waste products. This fluid also contains white blood cells, which are essential for combating infections. As lymph nodes filter this fluid, they can become enlarged when dealing with various health issues.

How do lymph nodes respond to threats?

When the body faces an infection or injury, lymph nodes in the affected area may swell as they increase their filtering activity. This swelling is a sign that the immune system is actively working to address a potential threat. In the case of armpit lymph nodes, swelling can occur due to issues affecting the arm, breast, or upper body.

Common Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can result from various factors, ranging from minor infections to more serious health conditions. Understanding these potential causes can help in identifying the underlying issue and seeking appropriate treatment.

Viral Infections

Many viral infections can lead to swollen lymph nodes, including those in the armpit. Some common viral causes include:

• Influenza (flu)
• Infectious mononucleosis (mono)
• Varicella-zoster virus (chickenpox)
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella
• HIV

These infections often produce additional symptoms beyond swollen lymph nodes, such as fever, fatigue, and in some cases, distinctive rashes.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections can also cause lymph node swelling in the armpit. Some examples include:

• Cellulitis
• Lyme disease
• Streptococcal infections
• Staphylococcal infections

These infections may require antibiotic treatment and can sometimes lead to more severe complications if left untreated.

Injuries and Localized Infections

Injuries or infections in the arm, hand, or breast can cause swelling in the armpit lymph nodes. This is because these nodes are responsible for draining lymph from these areas. Examples include:

• Cuts or scrapes that become infected
• Insect bites
• Mastitis (breast infection)

Autoimmune Conditions

Certain autoimmune disorders can cause lymph node swelling throughout the body, including in the armpit. These conditions include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus
• Sjögren’s syndrome

Cancer

While less common, swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can sometimes be a sign of cancer. Types of cancer that may cause this symptom include:

• Lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Breast cancer

It’s important to note that cancer is not typically the first consideration when dealing with swollen lymph nodes, but persistent swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Recognizing Symptoms of Swollen Lymph Nodes

Identifying swollen lymph nodes in the armpit is crucial for determining whether medical attention is necessary. The symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause, but common signs include:

• A visible lump or swelling in the armpit area
• Tenderness or pain when touching the affected area
• A feeling of warmth in the skin over the swollen node
• Redness or discoloration of the skin (may be less noticeable on darker skin tones)
• Discomfort when moving the arm on the affected side

In some cases, swollen lymph nodes may be accompanied by systemic symptoms, especially if caused by an infection or other widespread condition. These symptoms can include:

• Fever or chills
• Fatigue
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss
• General feeling of illness (malaise)

Can swollen lymph nodes be felt without visible swelling?

Yes, in some cases, swollen lymph nodes may not be visible but can be felt as small, firm lumps under the skin. This is particularly true for deeper lymph nodes or in individuals with more subcutaneous fat in the armpit area. Gently palpating the armpit region can help detect these swollen nodes even when they’re not immediately visible.

Diagnostic Approaches for Swollen Lymph Nodes

When a patient presents with swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic methods to determine the underlying cause. The approach typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination, followed by more specific tests if necessary.

Medical History and Physical Examination

During the initial evaluation, a healthcare provider will likely ask about:

• The duration and progression of the swelling
• Any associated symptoms
• Recent illnesses or infections
• Any injuries to the arm or upper body
• Family medical history, especially regarding autoimmune conditions or cancer

The physical examination will involve palpating the affected lymph node(s) to assess size, texture, and tenderness. The provider may also check for swollen lymph nodes in other areas of the body.

Laboratory Tests

Depending on the suspected cause, various blood tests may be ordered, including:

• Complete blood count (CBC) to check for signs of infection or blood disorders
• C-reactive protein (CRP) or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) to assess inflammation levels
• Specific tests for suspected viral or bacterial infections (e.g., mono test, Lyme disease antibody test)
• Autoimmune markers if an autoimmune condition is suspected

Imaging Studies

In some cases, imaging studies may be necessary to get a better view of the lymph nodes and surrounding tissues. These may include:

• Ultrasound: A non-invasive method to assess the size and structure of lymph nodes
• CT scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the body, useful for evaluating deeper lymph nodes
• MRI: Offers high-resolution images without radiation exposure
• PET scan: Can be used to detect areas of increased metabolic activity, which may indicate cancer or infection

Biopsy

If there’s suspicion of a more serious condition like cancer, or if the cause remains unclear after other tests, a biopsy may be recommended. This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lymph node for microscopic examination. Types of biopsies include:

• Fine-needle aspiration: A thin needle is used to extract a small amount of tissue or fluid
• Core needle biopsy: A larger needle is used to remove a small cylinder of tissue
• Excisional biopsy: The entire lymph node is surgically removed for examination

Treatment Options for Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit

The treatment for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, especially when due to minor infections, the swelling may resolve on its own without specific treatment. However, certain conditions require medical intervention.

Self-Care Measures

For mild cases or while waiting for medical evaluation, the following self-care measures may provide relief:

• Applying warm compresses to the affected area to reduce discomfort
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain and reduce fever
• Resting the affected arm to minimize irritation
• Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest to support the immune system

Medical Treatments

Depending on the cause, medical treatments may include:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antiviral medications for certain viral infections
• Antihistamines or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation in cases of allergic reactions
• Specific treatments for underlying conditions (e.g., chemotherapy for cancer, disease-modifying drugs for autoimmune disorders)

When is surgical intervention necessary?

In some cases, surgical intervention may be required. This is typically reserved for situations where:

• A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis
• An abscess has formed and needs to be drained
• Cancerous lymph nodes need to be removed

The specific surgical approach will depend on the individual case and the reason for the procedure.

Preventing Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Armpit

While it’s not always possible to prevent swollen lymph nodes, certain measures can reduce the risk of infections and other conditions that may lead to this symptom:

• Practicing good hygiene, including regular handwashing
• Keeping cuts and scrapes clean and covered to prevent infection
• Staying up-to-date with vaccinations
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep
• Avoiding close contact with individuals who have contagious illnesses
• Protecting against insect bites when outdoors
• Performing regular self-exams to detect any changes in your body early

Are there specific preventive measures for those at higher risk?

Individuals with certain risk factors, such as a weakened immune system or a history of lymph node issues, may need to take additional precautions. These might include:

• More frequent medical check-ups
• Stricter adherence to hygiene practices
• Avoiding crowds during peak illness seasons
• Discussing preventive medications with a healthcare provider

When to Seek Medical Attention for Swollen Lymph Nodes

While many cases of swollen lymph nodes in the armpit resolve on their own, certain situations warrant prompt medical attention. It’s important to recognize these signs to ensure timely treatment if necessary.

Red Flags to Watch For

Seek medical care if you experience any of the following:

• Swollen lymph nodes that persist for more than two weeks
• Lymph nodes that continue to enlarge or become hard and fixed in place
• Severe pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Unexplained fever that lasts more than a few days
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Night sweats or unexplained weight loss
• Redness or warmth of the skin over the swollen lymph node, which may indicate an infection

Special Considerations for High-Risk Groups

Certain individuals should be particularly vigilant about swollen lymph nodes and seek medical attention sooner. These include:

• People with a history of cancer
• Individuals with compromised immune systems (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications)
• Older adults, who may be more susceptible to serious infections
• People with chronic health conditions that affect the immune system

For these groups, even seemingly minor swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious underlying conditions.

Living with Chronic Lymph Node Swelling

In some cases, lymph node swelling in the armpit may persist due to chronic conditions or recurrent infections. Managing this ongoing issue requires a combination of medical care and lifestyle adjustments.

Long-Term Management Strategies

For individuals dealing with chronic lymph node swelling, the following strategies may be helpful:

• Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers to monitor the condition
• Adhering to prescribed treatment plans for underlying conditions
• Implementing stress-reduction techniques, as stress can impact the immune system
• Engaging in gentle exercises to promote lymph flow, such as yoga or swimming
• Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritation in the affected area
• Considering lymphatic massage or drainage techniques under professional guidance

Emotional and Psychological Support

Living with chronic health issues can take an emotional toll. It’s important to address the psychological aspects of dealing with persistent lymph node swelling:

• Joining support groups for individuals with similar conditions
• Seeking counseling or therapy to cope with anxiety or depression related to chronic health issues
• Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage stress
• Educating family and friends about the condition to foster understanding and support

By combining medical management with lifestyle adjustments and emotional support, individuals with chronic lymph node swelling can maintain a good quality of life and effectively manage their condition.

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.

Inflammation of the lymph node under the arm – what to do?

Inflammation of the lymph node under the arm is a sign that almost immediately makes itself felt. The fact is that the inflammatory reaction is accompanied by significant swelling, so even with a slight touch, the inflamed lymph nodes under the arm will hurt. As a rule, axillary lymphadenitis most often occurs after a respiratory illness. Therefore, if such a complication occurs, it is necessary to seek help from a qualified specialist as soon as possible.

Why do the lymph nodes under the armpits become inflamed?

Inflammation of the lymph nodes is called lymphadentitis. Most often, the lymph nodes become inflamed due to staphylococci, streptococci and E. coli. If too many bacteria accumulate in the body, and the lymphatic system can no longer cope with them, its nodes accumulate pathogens and become inflamed.

Axillary lymph nodes become inflamed due to a variety of reasons. For example, with a disease of the mammary glands, during a cold, infectious or oncological diseases. Furunculosis, increased work of the sweat glands, colds and respiratory diseases, allergies, and intoxications can also be factors.

Sometimes one lymph node becomes inflamed, sometimes lymph nodes all over the body become inflamed. Sometimes they increase so much that they become sensitive and painful. Those that appear in the armpits ache, blush and swell. Inflammation can be accompanied by weakness in the body, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and headache.

Symptoms of axillary lymphadenitis

The inflammatory process in the regional axillary lymph nodes has an isolated character and is usually characterized by a catarrhal or purulent course. Below are the most common clinical pictures of inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes.

• Acute catarrhal form. This inflammatory process is more common than others and often occurs in a mild form. It is characterized by severe pain, enlargement of the lymph nodes and their compaction. With catarrhal inflammation, the lymph nodes are easily separated and do not lose their mobility. In the axillary region, hyperemia and mild swelling may develop. The patient may report deterioration, discomfort during shoulder abduction, and mild subfebrile condition.
• Purulent form. This type of inflammatory process is the most dangerous due to the formation of a purulent focus, which can be represented by single or multiple abscesses. The lymph node itself loses its mobility and becomes painful and swollen. Nearby tissues are sharply hyperemic, may be subject to alteration or melting. Possible soldering of the lymph nodes with the skin.
• Chronic course of lymphadenitis. Quite often there are sluggish inflammatory processes, in which the lymph node under the arm becomes inflamed when the immune system is weakened and the body’s resistance to various infectious agents is reduced. Symptoms in this form are mild, the lymph nodes are mobile, but there is a slight soreness.

Treatment of lymph nodes

Treatment of lymphadenopathy of the axillary lymph nodes consists in the selection of the correct etiotropic and pathogenetic therapy. The main thing is to remember that patients are strictly forbidden to attempt to independently eliminate such a manifestation of the inflammatory reaction.

As a rule, all treatment is based on the elimination of the inflammatory focus, which caused the development of axillary lymphadenitis. Often, a course of antibiotic therapy or a number of anti-inflammatory drugs is prescribed for this. In addition, it is advisable to use compresses with Dimexide, immunomodulatory drugs and a course of physiotherapy procedures, which will contribute to the overall strengthening of the body.

With the development of a malignant process with concomitant lymphadenitis, the patient is indicated for a course of chemotherapy or surgical treatment.

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Armpit enlargement, causes and treatment

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Symptoms

Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the armpits

Enlargement of the lymph nodes under 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 armpits

Swollen lymph nodes under the arms is a common sign 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 diseases;
• malignant and benign tumors of lymphoid tissue;
• axillary metastases;
• female breast cancer;
• 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, therefore, it 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 borders of the lymph nodes in the armpits, 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 causes of enlarged 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 axillary lymph nodes

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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