Many people suffer from the appearance of an abscess under the armpit as a result of inflammation in the hair follicles or sebaceous glands in that area. The germs known as Staphylococcus aureus are often the main cause behind this, as they collect in the follicle, forming pus and dead skin. Doctors have relied on several methods to treat abscesses under the armpit, and we will discuss them in this article. According to the Dalili Medical website, abscesses under the armpit are usually accompanied by a set of annoying symptoms such as pain and redness, and these cases are often simple and do not require concern. However, if the abscesses grow rapidly or do not improve within two weeks of treatment, it becomes necessary to visit a doctor to take appropriate treatment measures

What are armpit abscesses?

 

Armpit abscesses are painful and uncomfortable lumps that form as a result of inflammation of the sweat glands. This disease usually appears after puberty and is characterized by a strong genetic factor. Although it does not pose a threat to the life of the infected person, it is considered a somewhat serious disease. This disease affects the self-esteem and quality of life of the individual. People with armpit cysts often experience severe pain, which can impede arm movement. Often, these cysts burst and release a foul-smelling, uncomfortable discharge.

What are armpit lumps?

 

Armpit lumps are a common condition, and are often caused by swelling of the lymph nodes or glands in the armpit. However, there are many other causes that can lead to lumps in this area, some of which may require treatment. There can be several possible causes of armpit lumps, as most lumps are harmless and are due to abnormal tissue growth. However, armpit lumps can sometimes indicate a more serious health problem, and in some cases, they can be life-threatening.

What are the factors that contribute to the appearance of an armpit abscess?

 

Underarm cysts appear as a result of inflammation in the hair follicle, and their occurrence is often associated with the following factors:

1. **Excessive sweating**: In cases of excessive sweating, especially during exercise in hot or humid conditions, and lack of attention to personal hygiene, the likelihood of underarm cysts increases.

2. **Shaving armpit hair**: Frequent shaving of armpit hair may increase the risk of bacterial infections in the hair follicles, which leads to the formation of cysts. Shaving leaves small holes in the skin, which facilitates the entry of germs.

3. **Poor personal hygiene**: Not paying attention to the cleanliness of the underarm area, and not washing it with soap and water, leads to the accumulation of dead cells and skin debris, which creates a suitable environment for the growth of germs and the formation of cysts.

4. **Weak immune system**: Individuals with a weak immune system are less able to resist bacterial infections. It has been noted that underarm cysts are more common among patients with diabetes, cancer, eczema, and allergic diseases.

What are the most common symptoms of an underarm abscess?

 

An abscess in the underarm area affects the hair follicle and the surrounding tissue, causing inflammation that forms a cavity around the follicle filled with pus. As the amount of pus increases, the abscess increases in size and appears with the following symptoms:

- Red or pink swelling.

- Pain when touching the abscess.

- Yellow pus coming out of the abscess.

- High temperature.

- Feeling tired and exhausted.

- Itching and discomfort in the area.

Several abscesses can also connect together to form a large cavity under the skin filled with pus.

In what cases should a doctor be visited?

 

Small abscesses usually do not cause concern to the patient, and they can be treated at home. However, there are certain cases that require consulting a doctor to obtain appropriate treatment:

- In the case of children or people over the age of sixty-five.

- If you have a weak immune system.

- Patients receiving chemotherapy.

- If the abscess is large or does not heal within two weeks.

- If you notice the abscess spreading to other areas of the body.

- Severe, unbearable pain accompanying the abscess.

- If there is swelling extending throughout the arm.

**How ​​is an abscess diagnosed under the armpit?**

 

The doctor begins by evaluating the condition by conducting a clinical examination of the patient and reviewing the abscess to determine the causes and factors affecting its appearance. The doctor may also request a laboratory analysis of a sample of the purulent secretions collected inside the abscess.

If the abscess under the armpit recurs, the doctor may conduct additional tests to detect any underlying medical conditions that may be behind the formation of the abscess, such as weak immunity or diabetes.

**The difference between an abscess and a tumor under the armpit in terms of cause**

 

**Causes of armpit abscess**

When the sweat glands in the armpit area become inflamed, the ducts that secrete sweat may become blocked, leading to infection in the area. As a result of this blockage, the pus from the infection collects and forms an abscess under the skin of the armpit.

Armpit abscesses usually appear after puberty, often starting as a single lump that lasts for weeks or even months. In fact, this condition tends to worsen and persist for long periods.

In most cases, the condition worsens over time and may affect other areas of the body. For example, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle in women often worsen the situation, which is why many women feel significantly better after menopause.

**Causes of the appearance of armpit lumps**

Most lumps that appear in the armpit area are harmless, and are often the result of abnormal tissue growth. However, some armpit lumps may be associated with more serious health problems. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor to evaluate any unusual lumps you may have.

The most common causes of armpit lumps include:

- Bacterial or viral infections.

-Lipomas (harmless growths of fatty tissue).

- Fibroadenomas (non-cancerous growths of fibrous tissue).

- Hidradenitis.

- Allergic reactions.

- Adverse reactions to vaccines.

- Fungal infections.

- Breast cancer.

- Lymphoma.

- Leukemia (cancer of blood cells).

- Systemic lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease that affects joints and organs).

**Difference between abscess symptoms and lumps under the armpit**

 

**Symptoms of abscess under the armpit:**

The main symptoms of abscess under the armpit include:

- Blackheads or pimples.

- Red, painful lumps in the armpit area.

- Discharge of pus with a foul odor.

- Itching and burning sensation in the affected area.

**Symptoms of armpit lump:**

The texture of the lump under the armpit can vary depending on the cause. For example, a cyst, infection, or fatty growth may feel soft, while fibroadenomas and cancerous tumors are hard and immobile.

Some people may experience pain with a lump in their armpit. Painful lumps are often associated with infections or allergic reactions that cause softer lumps. Lymph node infections can also cause painful lumps in this area.

An infection can cause the following symptoms with a lump in your armpit:

- Swollen lymph nodes throughout your body.

- Fever.

- Night sweats.

**When should you see a doctor about cysts and lumps under your armpit?**

 

**Underarm lumps:** There are some warning signs that may indicate a more serious lump in your armpit area, including:

- Gradually increasing in size.

- Painlessness.

- Hardness and inability to move.

If a person notices any of these symptoms or has any suspicions about a lump, they should see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out more serious causes. It is important to evaluate any unusual lumps carefully.

**Underarm Abscess:** Abscesses usually require medical attention. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor:

- Increased pain, inflammation or redness in the area of ​​the abscess.

- Red marks or lines appear around the affected area.

- Pain or discomfort inside.

- Fever or chills.

If your doctor thinks you have an abscess, he or she will determine whether it needs to be drained or if it can be treated in other ways, such as prescribing antibiotics.

Diagnosing a Lump or Abscess Under the Armpit

Physical examination: Your doctor will observe and feel your armpit area, where they may detect enlarged lymph nodes or other conditions related to the armpit.

Axillary lymph node biopsy: Part or all of a lymph node in the armpit is removed for examination under a microscope, sometimes to detect cancer.

Ultrasound: A device placed on the skin's surface sends out high-frequency sound waves, which bounce off the structures in the armpit. These signals are converted into images that appear on a video screen, allowing health care providers to see the internal structures of the body.

Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan takes several X-rays and uses a computer to assemble them into images that show the armpit and nearby structures.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: An MRI scan uses a powerful magnet and a computer to create detailed images of the armpit and surrounding areas.

**The difference between treatments for an abscess and a tumor under the armpit**

 

1. **Treatment of an abscess under the armpit**

 

There are several treatment options that aim to relieve pain and promote wound healing. Your doctor will determine which is best for each case.

Antibiotics are usually used to reduce infection in the area, along with steroid injections to relieve inflammation and pain. Painkillers are also given to ease the suffering. In some cases, there may be more effective surgical options to better control the condition.

2. **Treatment of underarm lumps**

Treatment of underarm lumps depends on the underlying cause. It is essential to consult a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.

If the lump is caused by an infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal medications. In the case of allergies, such as an allergy to deodorant, you may be advised to avoid the allergen. The doctor may also prescribe medications to control symptoms such as pain and swelling.

Autoimmune diseases can be managed with appropriate medications. Most lumps often go away on their own or respond to appropriate medical treatment, but some cases may require surgery. Cancerous lumps can also be treated with appropriate treatment.

**How ​​to perform underarm abscess surgery**

 

Surgery is performed by opening the abscess and draining its contents completely.

**Before surgery:**

- **Anesthesia:** The doctor numbs the area surrounding the abscess using a local anesthetic.

- **Sterilization:** The area is sterilized using antiseptic fluids, using sterile tools.

**During surgery:**

- **Opening the abscess:** The doctor opens the abscess and completely drains its contents.

- **Draining the pus:** A gauze wick is placed inside the wound to stimulate the absorption of the remaining pus.

**After surgery:**

- **Bandaging:** The wound is covered with an appropriate sanitary bandage.

- **Hygiene:** The patient is advised to keep the wound clean at home.

- **Pain:** The patient feels an improvement in pain immediately after opening and cleaning the abscess.

- **Painkillers:** Painkillers can be used if the discomfort persists.

- **Antibiotics:** The doctor prescribes an appropriate antibiotic to ensure that the infection is completely treated.

When can the appearance of an abscess under the armpit indicate a serious health problem?

 

In general, an abscess under the armpit is not a sign of a problem.

It is a serious health condition. However, if some additional symptoms appear, it is important not to ignore them and consult a doctor, such as:

- Severe pain in or around the abscess area.

- Difficulty moving the shoulder.

- Change in the color of the abscess.

- Increase in the size of the abscess.

- The appearance of abscesses in other areas of the body.

- Swelling and pain in the breast.

- High temperature.

Is the appearance of an abscess under the armpit a sign of cancer?

 

The presence of a lump under the armpit can indicate serious health conditions, such as:

- Breast cancer: It occurs as a result of abnormal growth of breast cells, leading to the formation of a tumor.

- Fibroadenoma of the breast: It is a common benign tumor that affects women during the reproductive stage.

- Leukemia: A type of cancer that affects white blood cells.

Therefore, it is necessary to visit a doctor immediately to conduct the necessary tests and obtain the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Additional signs that indicate the seriousness of the tumor include:

- Change in the size, shape, or texture of the tumor.

- Pain, redness or swelling in the surrounding area.

- Nipple discharge.

- Changes in the skin of the breast.

**Treatment of an abscess under the arm**

 

Bacterial infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus is the main cause of an abscess under the arm, so the most appropriate treatment includes the use of antibiotics that target these bacteria and limit their reproduction.

The doctor usually prescribes antibiotics in the form of tablets or ointment to treat an abscess under the arm, and in some severe cases it may be necessary to use intravenous antibiotics. Examples of these antibiotics include:

- Amoxicillin

- Ceftriaxone

- Cefazolin

- Levofloxacin

- Gentamicin

- Erythromycin

**What is the best antibiotic to treat an abscess?**

 

The choice of the appropriate antibiotic to treat an abscess under the arm depends on the condition of each patient, as not all antibiotics work equally well in eliminating bacteria. The improper use of antibiotics has led to the development of resistance in many bacteria.

Therefore, it is preferable to conduct a laboratory examination of the bacteria to determine its type and study its response to different antibiotics, which helps in choosing the most effective treatment.

**Treatment of underarm abscesses at home:**

 

In cases of simple underarm abscesses, some home methods can be used that have proven effective in relieving the annoying symptoms.

 

- **Hot compresses:**

Heat helps increase blood flow to the abscess area, which enhances the entry of white blood cells and accelerates the elimination of germs. Hot compresses are one of the best home remedies, and it is recommended to apply them for 20 minutes three times a day until healing occurs.

- **Tea tree oil:**

This oil is characterized by its antibacterial properties, which makes it effective in treating underarm abscesses when used correctly. It is preferable not to apply it directly to the skin without diluting it.

Castor oil

Castor oil is characterized by its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which makes it an excellent choice for treating abscesses that appear in the underarm area. Castor oil can be applied directly to the abscess area three times a day, and you will notice effective results in a short period of time.

**Turmeric Powder**

Turmeric powder has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it an effective home remedy option for getting rid of underarm abscesses. This powder can be taken by dissolving it in water or milk, or it can be applied directly to the affected area, or both methods can be used together.

**Surgical treatment of abscesses:**

If the condition of the underarm abscess does not improve within two weeks or if its size increases significantly, the doctor may decide to resort to surgical treatment. As the abscess increases in size and the amount of pus accumulated inside it, it becomes difficult for it to open automatically to drain its contents.

In this case, surgical treatment becomes necessary, where a small incision is made in the most prominent part of the abscess to drain its contents using sterile surgical tools. Care must be taken not to leave any residue inside the cavity to ensure that the abscess does not return with the growth of germs again.

**How ​​can an abscess under the armpit be prevented?**

 

Although an abscess under the armpit cannot be completely avoided, there are a number of measures that can help reduce the likelihood of its occurrence and limit its recurrence in the same area or its spread to other areas.

Maintaining personal hygiene is one of the most important means of preventing an abscess under the armpit, as it helps reduce the growth of the bacteria that cause it. After shaving the armpit hair, it is recommended to sterilize the area well and wash any small wounds that may appear, or apply an antibiotic ointment to it.

It is also preferable to avoid sharing personal items such as towels and deodorants, due to the high risk of infection they may carry.