Brilio.net - Armpits are a part of the body that often escapes care. In fact, this area is susceptible to problems such as body odor, skin irritation, and fungal infections. To maintain healthy underarms, it is important to clean them regularly with mild soap and warm water, and avoid using deodorants that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals that can cause irritation.
Apart from being an area with sensitive skin , the armpits are also home to various important organs and glands in the body. Various diseases can affect the body with symptoms related to the armpits. Armpit problems, such as lumps, can indicate serious illness if left untreated and detected quickly.
Although not all lumps in the armpit are dangerous, it is important to understand the symptoms and seek appropriate medical treatment. It is important not to ignore lumps in the armpit and immediately consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis and immediate treatment.
The doctor will perform a physical examination and may require additional tests, such as blood tests, ultrasound, or biopsy, to determine the cause of the lump in the fold area. With proper treatment, you can avoid more serious disease complications.
The following are the dangers that can occur when a lump appears in the armpit accompanied by symptoms and how to treat it, which brilio.net has collected from various sources, Thursday (23/5).
Causes of lumps in the armpit.
1. Body reaction due to allergies
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When the body experiences an allergic reaction to a substance, the immune system releases histamine, which can cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the area. This swelling can feel soft or hard, depending on the cause of the allergy and how severe the reaction is. As the cause of the allergy disappears or is resolved, the swelling will usually subside on its own.
2. Fat accumulation
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Accumulation of fat under the skin in the armpit area can cause lumps called lipomas. Lipoma is a benign tumor consisting of fatty tissue that grows slowly under the skin. Lipomas usually don't cause pain, but they can be lumps that feel soft or rubbery to the touch. Although lipomas are generally not dangerous, if they cause discomfort or change significantly, it is best to consult a doctor.
3. Irritant effect
The skin in the armpits can unknowingly be injured by shaving, but often it ends up being exposed to deodorant. This allows bacteria to enter and cause infection, which can result in lumps or swelling. To overcome this problem, avoid using deodorant or any products on irritated skin and clean the underarm area gently. If the lump continues to get bigger or causes discomfort, consult a doctor immediately.
4. Side effects of vaccines
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Vaccination can cause enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit as one of the rare side effects. This occurs because the body's immune system reacts to the ingredients in the vaccine, causing the lymph nodes to temporarily enlarge as the body reacts to the vaccine.
This enlargement is usually temporary and will decrease on its own. If a lump in the armpit lasts more than a few weeks or causes significant discomfort, it is best to consult a medical professional.
A disease that begins with a lump in the armpit.
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1. Candidiasis
Candidiasis in the armpits is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus. Symptoms include a red, itchy, and sometimes painful rash in the area. Treatment can be done using topical antifungals such as creams or ointments containing clotrimazole or miconazole. Loose clothing and freedom in the underarm area can help reduce moisture in the area, thereby reducing fungal growth. It's best to avoid using deodorants or antiperspirants that contain chemicals that can cause irritation or make infections worse. If the infection does not improve with home treatment, consult a doctor immediately.
2. Miliaria
Miliaria in the armpit area is a skin condition caused by blocked sweat glands, which causes a small red or white itchy rash. Symptoms include itching, hot skin, and sometimes pain or burning. Treatment includes keeping the skin dry and cool, avoiding tight clothing that can cause irritation, and using baby powder or a light anti-rash cream. Secondary infections are rare but if symptoms worsen or do not improve with home treatment, consult a doctor immediately.
Intern/Robiul Adil Robani
3. Folliculitis
Folliculitis in the armpit is inflammation of the hair follicles caused by infection with bacteria, fungi, or other irritating factors. Symptoms include red, itchy, and sometimes pus-filled spots around the hair follicles. Treatment usually involves applying a warm compress to help open the infected follicle, using a topical antifungal or antibiotic, and keeping the area clean and dry. If the infection is severe or recurrent, consult a doctor for further treatment.
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4. Autoimmune disease
Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, lymphoma, or Hashimoto's disease can cause lumps in the armpits. These lumps can be a sign of an overreaction of the immune system, where the immune system attacks the body's healthy tissue. The consequences of the appearance of these lumps can vary depending on the type of underlying autoimmune disease, but generally include swelling, pain, and disorders of the organs involved, such as lymph nodes or other organs affected by the autoimmune process. Immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and further treatment if you experience a lump in the armpit.
5. Cyst
Cysts in the armpit are fluid-filled sacs that can develop under the skin due to blockage of hair follicles or oil glands. Symptoms include a soft, palpable lump under the skin, sometimes accompanied by pain or pressure. Treatment depends on the size and symptoms of the cyst, but may include observation alone if it is not causing problems, the use of warm compresses to help the cyst rupture or liquefy, or in some cases, surgery to completely remove the cyst. Consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
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6. Possible exposure to STIs
One of the sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can cause lumps to appear in the armpits is syphilis. These lumps are a sign of the first stage of syphilis, which is called primary syphilis. Primary syphilis is characterized by the appearance of a chancre, which is an open sore that is painless and appears at the site where the Treponema pallidum bacteria enter the body, such as on the genitals, anus or mouth. This chancre usually goes away on its own, but if it is not treated, the infection can develop into the second stage and spread throughout the body, including the lymph nodes in the armpit which become swollen and feel hard. Syphilis can be treated with antibiotics, but it is important to consult a doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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7. Breast cancer
Breast cancer can cause lumps to appear in the armpit due to the spread of cancer to the lymph nodes in the area. Breast cancer that has reached an advanced stage can spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit, which can be felt as a lump or swelling in that area. Lymph nodes in the armpit are one of the main routes for the spread of breast cancer, because these lymph nodes play a role in cleaning the body of abnormal cells or infections.
This lump can appear as a symptom of breast cancer that has reached a more advanced stage, but not all lumps in the armpit are a sign of breast cancer. It is important to undergo a medical examination by a doctor for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.