Lump in Armpit: What It Usually Means
If you’ve found a lump under your armpit, it is important to contact your doctor. While it could potentially indicate cancer is present, it is far more likely to be a benign condition like an infection, allergy, or cyst.
An Armpit Lump Is Usually Benign
A lump under the armpit may be related to swelling of the lymph nodes. In the body, lymph nodes act like filters that catch things your body doesn’t want, like germs. Swelling in the lymph node area may indicate that your body has identified an infection and is trying to fight it. Finding a lump under the armpit is common for some bacterial and viral infections. In that case, a round of antibiotics is usually all that is needed to treat the lump.
Why an Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Although a lump in your armpit isn’t likely to be a sign of breast cancer, it is very important to have it checked out and get all tests that are recommended by your doctor. The lump could be a tumor, because breast tissue can actually extend all the way out to the armpit. Or the lump could also be due to swollen lymph nodes that are attempting to filter out cancer cells.
Meeting With Your Doctor About a Lump Under Your Armpit
Your doctor will conduct an exam and ask you questions about your symptoms. Before you visit your doctor, write down what you notice about the lump and any other symptoms you may be having, even if they seem unrelated. Your doctor may ask you some of these questions:
- When did you first notice the lump under your armpit?
- Has it changed in any way? (bigger, smaller)
- Is it painful?
- Is there anything that makes it worse?
- Have you had a vaccine recently? (Some lumps may be the result of an adverse reaction to a vaccine.)
Imaging Tests for a Lump Under the Armpit
Your doctor may recommend an imaging study, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, if more information is necessary to make a diagnosis. At The Breast Center of Maple Grove, diagnostic mammograms and ultrasounds are offered in a relaxing and comfortable environment, and results are provided on the same day.
Lump Under Armpit FAQs
Should I be worried about a lump under my armpit?
Most lumps under the armpit are benign and often linked to swollen lymph nodes, an infection, an allergy, or a cyst. Swelling can simply mean your body is fighting off germs. Even so, it is important to contact your doctor so the lump can be checked and any recommended tests completed.
What causes a lump in the armpit?
A lump in the armpit is often related to swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes act like filters, and they can swell when your body is fighting a bacterial or viral infection. Other causes include allergies, cysts, or a reaction to a recent vaccine. Because breast tissue extends toward the armpit, your doctor may also recommend imaging.
When should I see a doctor about a lump under my armpit?
Contact your doctor as soon as you notice a lump under your armpit. Before your visit, write down when you first noticed it, whether it has changed in size, whether it is painful, and whether you have had a recent vaccine. These notes help your doctor decide on next steps.
What imaging tests are used for an armpit lump?
If more information is needed, your doctor may recommend a diagnostic mammogram or a breast ultrasound. At The Breast Center of Maple Grove, both exams are offered in a relaxing, comfortable environment with a caring team that walks you through each step, so you can get clear answers and move forward with confidence.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you found a lump under your armpit, contact your doctor first. If additional imaging is necessary to make a diagnosis, contact the compassionate physicians and technologists at The Breast Center of Maple Grove to schedule your exam.