7 things can cause underarm pain. which one is the danger?

Armpit pain can be the result of many things that you may not have been aware of before. Some of the causes are common and easy to fix. On the other hand, a sore armpit may be a sign of a more serious illness or health condition. Therefore, do not underestimate your pain. Find out what causes armpit pain below.

Various things that cause armpit pain

1. Muscle injury

Pectoralis major, the muscle that stretches from the chest to the shoulder, can be injured when you are doing activities (for example, lifting heavy objects) or when you are playing sports. Apart from the chest muscles, the muscles of the upper arms can also be tensed and pulled when we throw, lift, or do other movements.

Injury to these muscles can then cause inflammation and the development of pain in the armpits.

2. Shaving cut or irritation

Underarm pain can be caused by irritation from incorrect shaving or plucking techniques. Some deodorants, antiperspirants, detergents, and body soaps can also trigger irritation or allergic reactions on the skin, including underarm skin. This skin irritation can cause a rash called contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis can cause the underarm skin to be red, swollen, painful and hot.

3. Shingles

Herpes zoster is a contagious skin disease caused by a virus V aricella zoster. This virus causes red rashes filled with water that feel hot and itchy. The most commonly affected areas are the arms, chest and face. Shingles can also cause a scaly skin rash and a tingling sensation in the infected area.

4. Swollen lymph nodes

There are about 600 lymph nodes in the body, but the number of glands that can be felt or touched by hand is only a few. Among them are at the bottom of the jaw, neck and armpits. Lymph nodes play a very important role in fighting disease and maintaining endurance. Your lymph nodes can swell when you have an infection, such as the flu.

There are also several other conditions that affect the condition of the lymph nodes, such as lymphedema, lymphadenitis, upper respiratory tract infections (ARI), ear infections, strep throat, viral infections, to lupus. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation throughout the body, including the lymph nodes.

All these disorders of the lymph nodes can cause armpit pain.

5. Rheumatism

Rheumatoid arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis) and other types of joint pain can cause joints to become inflamed and swell. It does not rule out the swelling to occur around the joints of the armpits, causing pain.

6. Peripheral artery disease

Peripheral artery disease is a condition of narrowing of the small blood vessels in the arms or legs. This narrowing will reduce oxygen to the surrounding tissue. Muscles that are deprived of oxygen will feel sore for a long time. If you have peripheral artery disease in one or both armpits, you will experience this pain.

7. Breast cancer

Breast cancer is often painless in its early stages. But over time you will feel pain or feel a lump under the arm or in the breast. You should seek medical attention immediately if this occurs.

What can I do to reduce the pain in my armpits?

Using an ice pack to reduce muscle soreness
NSAID drugs that can reduce inflammation and pain.
Using a warm compress to ease swollen lymph nodes
Apply a moisturizer to prevent dry underarm skin
Avoid deodorants, soaps, and detergents that contain allergens or irritate them
Wear loose clothing, avoid clothes that are tight on the arms and armpits
Avoid shaving with a razor which can cause further irritation

When should I see a doctor immediately?

If your armpit pain occurs with muscle tension, you may be able to fully recover by resting your muscles for a few days.

However, if your complaint does not go away or gets worse, for example, the swelling is getting bigger, you should immediately consult a doctor. You will usually be referred to a hematologist who has expertise in lymph nodes, or to a breast cancer specialist if the lump is suspected of being cancer.

In addition, see a doctor immediately if there is pain accompanied by the following conditions: