Understanding Underarm Pain: Causes & Treatment

Underarm Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Underarm pain, also known as axillary pain, can occur due to various factors ranging from minor issues like muscle strain to more serious conditions such as infections or underlying medical conditions. This article explores the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for underarm pain.

Causes of Underarm Pain:

1. Muscle Strain: Overexertion or sudden movements can strain the muscles in the underarm, leading to pain and discomfort.
2. Injury: Trauma to the underarm area, such as falls or sports injuries, can result in pain and inflammation.
3. Lymph Node Enlargement: Swollen lymph nodes in the underarm can be a sign of infection or other health issues.
4. Skin Irritation: Conditions like dermatitis or allergic reactions can cause redness, itching, and pain in the underarm region.
5. Infections: Bacterial or viral infections, such as cellulitis or abscesses, can cause severe underarm pain.
6. Nerve Compression: Compression of nerves in the underarm area due to conditions like thoracic outlet syndrome can lead to pain and numbness.
7. Breast-related Issues: Breast infections, cysts, or tumors can sometimes cause referred pain to the underarm.
8. Shingles: The reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus can cause a painful rash that may extend to the underarm.
9. Joint Problems: Conditions like arthritis or bursitis affecting the shoulder joint can radiate pain to the underarm.
10. Heart Issues: In some cases, underarm pain may be a symptom of a heart attack, especially in women.

Symptoms of Underarm Pain:

1. Pain and Tenderness: Aching or sharp pain in the underarm area, especially during movement.
2. Swelling: Visible swelling or enlargement of lymph nodes or tissues in the underarm.
3. Redness and Warmth: Inflammatory conditions may cause redness and warmth in the underarm skin.
4. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder due to pain or stiffness.
5. Fever: Infections or inflammatory conditions may be accompanied by fever and chills.
6. Skin Changes: Rashes, bumps, or lumps in the underarm that are painful or itchy.
7. Numbness or Tingling: Nerve-related issues can cause sensations of numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in the underarm region.

Diagnosis:

1. Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess the underarm area for signs of swelling, tenderness, or skin abnormalities.
2. Medical History: Information about past injuries, medical conditions, and recent illnesses helps in diagnosis.
3. Imaging Tests: X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be used to examine the bones, muscles, and soft tissues in the underarm and shoulder.
4. Blood Tests: Blood work can detect signs of infection, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions.
5. Biopsy: If a lump or mass is present, a biopsy may be performed to determine if it is benign or cancerous.
6. Nerve Conduction Studies: For suspected nerve compression or damage, nerve conduction tests may be conducted.

Treatment Options:

1. Rest and Ice: Mild underarm pain from strains or injuries can often be relieved with rest, ice packs, and avoiding strenuous activities.
2. Pain Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
3. Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a physical therapist can improve flexibility and reduce pain.
4. Antibiotics: If an infection is the cause of underarm pain, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the underlying infection.
5. Topical Treatments: Creams or ointments may be recommended for skin conditions causing underarm pain, such as dermatitis or rashes.
6. Steroid Injections: In cases of severe inflammation, corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce pain and swelling.
7. Surgery: In rare instances, surgical intervention may be necessary to address issues like nerve compression or certain types of tumors.
8. Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding triggers like allergens or irritants, maintaining good hygiene, and wearing loose clothing can help prevent underarm pain in some cases.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

While mild underarm pain may resolve on its own or with home remedies, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical evaluation:

• Persistent or worsening pain despite home care.
• Sudden onset of severe pain or swelling.
• Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder.
• Signs of infection such as fever, redness, and warmth.
• Lumps, bumps, or skin changes in the underarm area.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Delayed or inadequate treatment can lead to complications or exacerbate underlying conditions causing underarm pain.

Certainly! Let’s delve deeper into some of the causes, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options for underarm pain.

Underlying Causes of Underarm Pain:

1. Lymphadenopathy: Enlarged lymph nodes in the underarm, known as lymphadenopathy, can occur due to infections, inflammation, or even cancer. Common infections that cause lymph node enlargement include viral illnesses like the flu or bacterial infections such as strep throat. Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can also affect lymph nodes. Additionally, lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system, may present with swollen lymph nodes in the underarm.

2. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: This is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflamed, painful nodules in areas with sweat glands, including the underarms. It can cause abscesses, scarring, and recurrent infections. Management often involves medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgical intervention.

3. Brachial Plexus Injury: The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that control movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injuries to this network, such as stretching or compression during trauma, can lead to underarm pain, weakness, and numbness. Physical therapy and sometimes surgery are part of the treatment approach for brachial plexus injuries.

4. Axillary Nerve Entrapment: Similar to brachial plexus injuries, entrapment or compression of the axillary nerve specifically can cause underarm pain, tingling, and muscle weakness. This condition may result from repetitive overhead activities or direct trauma to the shoulder area.

5. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS): TOS encompasses a group of disorders caused by compression of nerves or blood vessels between the neck and shoulder. Symptoms can include underarm pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arm and hand. Treatment may involve physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgical decompression.

Diagnostic Procedures:

1. Ultrasound: This imaging technique uses sound waves to create real-time images of the structures in the underarm area, including lymph nodes, muscles, and blood vessels. It can help identify abnormalities such as swollen lymph nodes, cysts, or tumors.

2. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans provide detailed images of soft tissues, bones, and nerves. They are useful for evaluating conditions like nerve compression, soft tissue injuries, and joint abnormalities in the underarm and shoulder region.

3. Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: If a lump or mass is present in the underarm, FNA biopsy may be performed to extract a sample of cells for analysis. This procedure helps determine if the lump is benign or malignant.

4. Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies: These tests evaluate the electrical activity of muscles and the conduction of nerve signals. They are used to diagnose nerve-related conditions such as brachial plexus injuries, axillary nerve entrapment, or peripheral neuropathy.

5. Blood Tests: Blood work may be ordered to check for signs of infection, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, or metabolic abnormalities that could contribute to underarm pain.

Advanced Treatment Options:

1. Nerve Block Injections: For persistent or severe nerve pain in the underarm, nerve block injections with local anesthetics and steroids may be administered. These injections can provide temporary relief by interrupting pain signals.

2. Radiofrequency Ablation: This minimally invasive procedure uses heat generated by radiofrequency waves to target and disrupt nerves causing chronic pain in the underarm and surrounding areas. It is often used for conditions like axillary nerve entrapment or neuropathic pain syndromes.

3. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Specialists in this field focus on restoring function and managing pain through therapies such as electrotherapy, ultrasound, manual techniques, and tailored exercise programs.

4. Lymphatic Drainage Therapy: For conditions causing lymphatic congestion or swelling in the underarm, lymphatic drainage massage and other specialized techniques can improve lymphatic circulation and reduce discomfort.

5. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: In cases where underarm pain is related to cancer, targeted therapies and immunotherapies may be part of the treatment plan. These approaches aim to specifically target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

6. Psychological Support: Chronic underarm pain can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional well-being. Mental health professionals can provide counseling, coping strategies, and support for managing the psychological aspects of chronic pain.

Lifestyle Modifications and Self-Care:

1. Proper Posture and Ergonomics: Maintaining good posture and avoiding activities that strain the shoulders and arms can help prevent underarm pain associated with muscle strain or nerve compression.

2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, including stretching, strengthening, and cardiovascular exercises, can improve flexibility, muscle strength, and overall joint health.

3. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients can support musculoskeletal health and immune function, reducing the risk of infections and inflammatory conditions that may contribute to underarm pain.

4. Stress Management: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress levels, which can exacerbate pain perception.

5. Appropriate Clothing: Wearing comfortable, breathable clothing and using proper-fitting bras or supportive garments can reduce friction, irritation, and pressure on the underarm area.

6. Hygiene Practices: Maintaining good hygiene by regularly washing the underarm area and using gentle, non-irritating hygiene products can prevent skin infections and irritation.

7. Avoiding Harmful Substances: Minimizing exposure to tobacco smoke, alcohol, and other substances that can compromise immune function or exacerbate inflammation is beneficial for overall health and pain management.

By addressing the underlying causes, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques, and implementing a comprehensive treatment approach that includes medical interventions, physical therapies, lifestyle modifications, and self-care strategies, individuals experiencing underarm pain can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.