The lump you’re describing could be due to several potential causes, and it’s necessary to carefully assess to determine the appropriate steps. It’s good that you’ve been monitoring it for changes in size or discomfort. Common causes of a lump under the armpit can include swollen lymph nodes, cysts, lipomas, or even an abscess. Given the symptom of it being painful when pressed and your new chest pain, this situation deserves a careful evaluation by a healthcare professional, particularly as some of these conditions might require specific interventions. Swollen lymph nodes, for instance, can arise from infections or inflammation in the surrounding areas, but they can also indicate more serious conditions such as lymphoma. Cysts and lipomas, on the other hand, are usually benign but a healthcare provider can confirm this through physical examination and sometimes imaging studies like an ultrasound or a biopsy to be sure. The presence of chest pain, particularly when associated with a lump in the armpit, should be taken seriously due to the anatomical proximity to the breast and respiratory structures. This adds a layer of complexity that warrants a prompt examination to exclude conditions like breast tissue abnormalities or infections. Therefore, one practical step is to arrange for an appointment with a general practitioner or a specialist in dermatology or surgery, who can provide an accurate diagnosis and point you towards effective management or intervention. In terms of immediate action, it’s important to avoid pressing or manipulating the lump further, as this could exacerbate any underlying issue. If you’ve noticed any additional symptoms like fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, you should highlight these to your physician, as they could assist in narrowing down the diagnosis. Prioritize making a medical appointment, as addressing the issue not only alleviates discomfort but also ensures no underlying serious condition is overlooked.
A soft lump in the armpit present since childhood that becomes tender on pressing is most commonly due to accessory breast tissue, a benign lipoma, or a reactive lymph node, and pain can increase with hormonal changes or local strain, which may explain the recent chest discomfort. These causes are usually non-dangerous, but persistence and pain mean it should be properly evaluated rather than ignored or pressed repeatedly. Please consult a general surgeon or gynecologist for a clinical exam and ultrasound to confirm the cause and discuss reassurance or removal options if it’s causing pain or cosmetic concern.
Hello dear See as per clinical history it seems either lipoma or extra breast accesory tissue. Differential diagnosis includes lymph nodes infection As clinical pic is not there so i cannot confirm the exact pathology I suggest you to please get following tests done for confirmation USG arm pit CBC Esr Fnac if recommended by pathologist Avoid excessive pressure on tissue Observe in case of growth or redness Please share the result with pathologist or microbiologist for better clarity. Please donot take any medication without consulting the concerned physician Regards
Hello Nozima Thank you for explaining the situation. A soft lump under the armpit that’s been there since childhood, hurts when pressed, and hasn’t changed much in size is usually not dangerous, but it’s understandable to be concerned—especially if it’s now causing chest pain when pressing near the area.
Possible causes:
- Enlarged lymph node: This is the most common cause, especially if it’s soft and has been there for a long time. Sometimes, lymph nodes stay enlarged after infections in childhood.
- Lipoma: A soft, fatty, non-cancerous lump under the skin.
- Accessory breast tissue: Some people have extra breast tissue in the armpit area from birth.
- Other benign lumps: Like cysts.
Chest pain when pressing:
This is likely due to pressure on the lump or nearby nerves/muscles, not the heart or lungs.
What you should do:
- See a pediatrician or general surgeon: They can examine the lump and may suggest an ultrasound to confirm what it is.
- Don’t try to press or massage it: This can cause pain or irritation.
- Monitor for changes: If the lump grows, becomes hard, red, hot, or starts to drain pus, see a doctor immediately.
Solution:
- Most lumps like this are harmless and don’t need removal unless they cause pain, grow, or are cosmetically concerning.
- If it’s a lipoma or accessory tissue and you want it removed for cosmetic reasons, a minor surgery can be done safely.
Thank you and get well soon
Hello Nozima,
This is NOT armpit fat dear
A soft lump present since childhood in the armpit that hurts on pressure and now causes chest/axillary pain is most commonly:
👍Accessory (extra) breast tissue or Benign lipoma / enlarged lymph tissue
Why exercise didn’t help:
Fat loss exercises cannot remove accessory breast tissue or lipoma These lumps do not shrink with weight loss
👍Most likely cause (in girls): Accessory breast tissue → becomes painful with hormonal changes, stress, or pressure
👍Pain radiating to chest is common
Ultrasound of axilla + breast (simple, safe test) Consult general surgeon or breast specialist for examination and further evaluation
👍Treatment: If confirmed accessory breast tissue → minor surgical removal (permanent solution) No medicines or exercises can remove it
Always check if: Rapid growth Redness, fever Hard or fixed lump
I hope its clear and helpful Thank you!
Hello Nozima, thank you for sharing your concern. Based on what you explained it doesn’t seem like it’s just armpit fat. It might be accessory breast tissue, enlarged lymph node, lipoma, etc…
For a proper diagnosis, you need to get done an Ultrasound of Axilla + Breast. This will clarify things for you. Review with the report.
Feel free to reach out again.
Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, D.Fam.Medicine
