Lymph nodes under the arm are a common source of underarm swelling.
A swollen armpit can be caused by a number of conditions, ranging from mild to severe. This is because the lymph nodes under the arms can become swollen due to infection, injury, or serious illness. In fact, one of the most common causes of underarm swelling is infection, as many areas of the body drain into the lymph nodes in that area. Superficial injuries or allergies to certain products, such as deodorants, can also cause swelling. While most causes are mild and treatable, cancer, including melanoma, lymphoma, and breast cancer, can also cause swollen lymph nodes.
Bites and minor cuts from shaving can cause temporary swelling of the lymph nodes.
Because the lymphatic system must remove bacteria from the body, swollen lymph nodes are often a sign that it is trying to fight off an infection. Infections that come from the hands, arms, and breasts can affect the armpits, as these areas drain into the lymph nodes located here. Other signs of infection include chills, fever, and headache as the body tries to fight them off.
A doctor should be consulted if the swelling persists, as it can also be a symptom of cancer.
Injuries to the surface of the skin can also lead to swelling under the arm, especially if an infection occurs. Bites, scrapes, and cuts can cause the lymph nodes to swell, especially when they are located in the armpit area, such as small cuts caused by shaving. Also, allergies to certain products, such as deodorants, perfumes, soaps, and shaving creams, can cause lymph nodes to swell, especially when they enter the body through breaks in the skin. Fortunately, the swelling should go away once the injury has healed or the product is no longer used. If the swelling does not go away on its own within a few days, the person may need antibiotics.
An allergic reaction to a deodorant can cause swelling.
While most cases are quite treatable, underarm swelling can also be a symptom of many types of cancer. Because breast tissue includes the skin under the arm, swelling in this area can be a symptom of breast cancer, especially if it is painless and gradual. Lymphoma, which is a cancer of the lymphatic system, can also cause the lymph nodes under the arm to swell, just like melanoma or skin cancer. For this reason, this symptom should not be ignored. If the swelling does not go away within a few days, the person should see a medical professional to determine the underlying cause.
