What are the common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. How can you identify the symptoms of swollen lymph nodes. What treatments are available for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. When should you seek medical attention for swollen lymph nodes.

Understanding Lymph Nodes and Their Function

Lymph nodes play a crucial role in our body’s immune system. These small, bean-shaped structures are part of a complex network that helps filter out harmful substances and fight infections. When our body detects a threat, such as a bacterial or viral infection, lymph nodes can swell as they work harder to filter out unwanted cells from the lymph fluid.

Lymph is a watery fluid that circulates throughout our body, carrying oxygen to cells and transporting waste products away. It also contains white blood cells, which are essential for combating infections. As lymph nodes increase their activity to remove waste, they may enlarge, becoming noticeable in certain areas of the body, including the neck, armpits, and groin.

How to Identify Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes can present in various ways:

• They may be painful and tender to the touch
• In some cases, they can be visibly enlarged under the skin
• Sometimes, they are smaller or deeper in the body and only noticeable when touching the area

It’s important to note that the severity of lymph node swelling can range from mild, temporary enlargement due to common infections to more serious conditions that require medical attention.

Viral Infections Causing Armpit Lymph Node Swelling

Many viral infections can lead to swollen lymph nodes in the armpit area. Some of these viruses include:

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

While these infections often produce other visible symptoms like rashes, some viral conditions can cause lymph node swelling without additional apparent signs.

Influenza and Its Impact on Lymph Nodes

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory infection that can cause lymph nodes to swell. Unlike other respiratory viruses, 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

Who is at higher risk for flu complications? Young children, adults over 65, pregnant individuals, and people with underlying health conditions are more susceptible to severe flu symptoms and may require antiviral medication. The best prevention method is getting an annual flu vaccine.

Infectious Mononucleosis: The “Kissing Disease”

Infectious mononucleosis, often referred to as mono or glandular fever, is another viral infection that can cause lymph nodes in the neck and armpits to swell. Symptoms of mono 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 within 2-4 weeks, although some may experience symptoms for a longer period. Rest, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage symptoms during recovery.

Bacterial Infections and Armpit Lymph Node Swelling

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

Cellulitis: A Serious Skin Infection

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. For instance, an infection in the arm may lead to enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit.

Common symptoms of cellulitis at the infection site include:

• Pain and swelling
• Skin sores
• Warm-to-touch skin
• Redness (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, chills, body aches, muscle and joint pain, vomiting, nausea, and fatigue.

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

Lyme Disease: A Tick-Borne Illness

Lyme disease is transmitted through the saliva of certain tick species. Swollen lymph nodes are one of the early symptoms of Lyme disease, potentially appearing 3-30 days after the tick bite.

Other early symptoms of Lyme disease include:

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

What is the standard treatment for Lyme disease? Doctors typically prescribe antibiotics to treat Lyme disease. It’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect you have this condition.

Other Bacterial Infections Affecting Lymph Nodes

While less likely to specifically affect armpit lymph nodes, other bacterial infections that can cause lymph node swelling include:

• Chlamydia
• Syphilis
• Tuberculosis

These infections typically affect lymph nodes in other areas of the body, such as the neck or groin.

Non-Infectious Causes of Swollen Armpit Lymph Nodes

While infections are common causes of swollen lymph nodes, there are other non-infectious conditions that can lead to this symptom. These include:

Injuries and Physical Trauma

An injury or physical trauma to the arm or upper body can cause lymph nodes in the armpit to swell. This is a natural response as the lymphatic system works to clear debris and promote healing in the affected area.

Allergic Reactions

In some cases, severe allergic reactions can cause lymph nodes to swell, including those in the armpit. This is part of the body’s immune response to the allergen.

Autoimmune Disorders

Certain autoimmune disorders, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, can lead to swollen lymph nodes. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Cancers

While less common, certain types of cancer can cause lymph node swelling. These include:

• Lymphoma: A cancer that begins in the lymphatic system
• Leukemia: A cancer of the blood-forming tissues
• Breast cancer: Can cause swelling in nearby lymph nodes, including those in the armpit

It’s important to note that while cancer can cause swollen lymph nodes, most cases of swollen lymph nodes are not due to cancer.

Diagnosing the Cause of Swollen Armpit Lymph Nodes

When faced with swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, healthcare providers use various methods to determine the underlying cause:

Physical Examination

A doctor will typically start with a thorough physical examination, checking the size, tenderness, and consistency of the swollen lymph nodes. They will also look for other symptoms that might indicate the cause of the swelling.

Medical History

Your doctor will ask about your medical history, recent illnesses, injuries, or exposures that might explain the lymph node swelling.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can help identify infections, autoimmune disorders, or other conditions that might be causing the swollen lymph nodes.

Imaging Tests

In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI may be necessary to get a better view of the lymph nodes and surrounding tissues.

Biopsy

If other tests are inconclusive or if cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be performed. This involves removing a small sample of the lymph node tissue for examination under a microscope.

Treatment Options for Swollen Armpit Lymph Nodes

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

Watchful Waiting

In many cases, especially when the cause is a minor infection, swollen lymph nodes will resolve on their own without specific treatment. Your doctor may recommend monitoring the condition and returning if symptoms persist or worsen.

Home Remedies

For mild cases, home remedies can help alleviate discomfort:

• Applying warm compresses to the affected area
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Getting plenty of rest to support the immune system

Antibiotics

If a bacterial infection is the cause, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. It’s crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Antiviral Medications

For certain viral infections, antiviral medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms and speed up recovery.

Treatment for Underlying Conditions

If the swollen lymph nodes are due to an underlying condition such as an autoimmune disorder or cancer, treatment will focus on addressing that specific condition.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Swollen Armpit Lymph Nodes

While many cases of swollen lymph nodes are not serious and resolve on their own, there are situations where medical attention is necessary. Consider seeing a healthcare provider if:

• The swollen lymph nodes persist for more than two weeks
• The lymph nodes continue to enlarge or become hard and immovable
• You experience unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fever
• The swelling is accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing
• You notice redness or warmth around the swollen area, which could indicate an infection
• The swollen lymph nodes are painful or tender to the touch

These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment.

Preventing Swollen Armpit Lymph Nodes

While it’s not always possible to prevent swollen lymph nodes, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

Practice Good Hygiene

Maintaining good personal hygiene can help prevent many infections that lead to swollen lymph nodes. This includes:

• Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoiding close contact with people who have contagious illnesses
• Keeping cuts and scrapes clean and covered until they heal

Strengthen Your Immune System

A strong immune system can help fight off infections that might cause lymph node swelling. To boost your immunity:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Get regular exercise
• Ensure you’re getting enough sleep
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation

Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccinations

Keeping your vaccinations current can prevent many infections that could lead to swollen lymph nodes. This includes annual flu shots and other recommended vaccines based on your age and health status.

Avoid Known Allergens

If you have known allergies, avoiding triggers can help prevent allergic reactions that might cause lymph node swelling.

Regular Health Check-ups

Regular medical check-ups can help detect and address potential health issues before they lead to complications like swollen lymph nodes.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, you can better monitor your health and seek appropriate care when necessary. Remember, while swollen lymph nodes are often a sign that your body is fighting an infection, persistent or concerning symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

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

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