Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Underarm: Signs, Roots, and Remedies
Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit are often a sign of an infection, but they can also indicate more serious conditions. While it's common to experience swollen lymph nodes following a viral infection, persistent swelling beyond the usual recovery period could be a cause for concern.
Lymphomas, cancers of the lymphatic system, are one of the key possible causes of persistent swollen lymph nodes. Both follicular lymphoma (a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma) and classical Hodgkin lymphoma can present as painless, rubbery swollen lymph nodes that do not resolve over weeks[1][2][3].
Other potential causes include leukemia, a cancer of the blood cells, and Kaposi’s Sarcoma, a rare cancer of blood or lymph vessels[1]. Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, and celiac disease can also cause swollen lymph nodes in multiple locations[1][3].
In some cases, medications or vaccines can infrequently trigger lymph node enlargement as an immune response[1][2]. Rarer causes include infections other than common viruses, environmental exposures (e.g., pesticides), or inherited immune disorders that increase lymphoma risk[3].
It's important to note that lymph nodes are part of the body's immune system, and they may swell in response to infections or injuries. However, if the swelling lasts longer or worsens, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
In addition, certain symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, easy bruising or bleeding, and systemic symptoms like fatigue, should prompt a visit to the doctor, as they may indicate blood cancers[3][4].
If you notice persistent swollen lymph nodes, a healthcare professional can determine the cause and recommend the best treatment. Diagnostic tests that a doctor may perform include blood tests, biopsy, ultrasound scan, or computerized tomography (CT) scan[1].
In the meantime, you can manage discomfort by applying a warm compress to the affected area. However, if the swelling becomes painful or tender to the touch, or if you experience other symptoms, it's essential to seek medical advice.
In summary, while swollen lymph nodes in the armpit often follow benign infections, they warrant deeper investigation when prolonged. Consulting a healthcare professional for evaluation, including physical examination, blood tests, imaging, and possibly biopsy, is recommended for persistent cases.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Swollen lymph nodes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/swollen-lymph-nodes/symptoms-causes/syc-20353421 [2] American Cancer Society. (2021). Lymphoma. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lymphoma.html [3] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Lymphoma. https://www.cancer.gov/types/lymphoma [4] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Swollen lymph nodes. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10599-swollen-lymph-nodes
- In addition to infections, swollen lymph nodes can indicate bipolar lymphomas, which are cancers of the lymphatic system.
- Follicular lymphoma, a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, could present as painless, rubbery swollen lymph nodes that persist for weeks.
- Classical Hodgkin lymphoma can also manifest as swollen lymph nodes that don't resolve over time.
- Leukemia and Kaposi's Sarcoma, rare cancers of blood or lymph vessels, are potential causes of persistent swollen lymph nodes.
- Autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, celiac disease, and other lymphomas can lead to swollen lymph nodes in multiple locations.
- Science reveals that lymph nodes may swell in response to infections, injuries, chronic diseases like chronic kidney disease, chronic-diseases, breast-cancer, and even certain medications or vaccines.
- Aq, Lyme disease, and other environmental exposures, such as pesticides, could potentially cause swollen lymph nodes.
- If you experience symptoms such as depression, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, easy bruising or bleeding, and systemic symptoms like fatigue, you should consult a healthcare professional, as these may point towards blood cancers.
- For persistent swollen lymph nodes, a medical-examination, including blood tests, imaging, and possibly biopsy, is recommended to determine the cause and recommend the best treatment for controlling and predictive future health-and-wellness issues.
