Hi Doctor. For A Few Months Now I Have Had

Posted on Thu, 17 Oct 2019

Question: Hi doctor.

For a few months now i have had itchy armpits.

There is no visible rash and no lumps.
when i am distracted or doing something it doesnt interrupt my day to day life but they itch most days even if its just for a couple of mins.

I researched online and saw so much information about Itching and Lymphoma.

due to some reflex i had a full blood count and a blood test to check liver pancrease and gallbladder and my doctor said eveything is perfect.

should i still be concerned about the itching?
what could be cauing this? ive not changed deoderant, soaps ect for years!

Answered by Dr. Dr. Antoneta Zotaj (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It is unlikely the itchiness is due to lymphoma- explanations below

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to 'Ask A Doctor' service,

I carefully read your query and understand your concern.

Itchy armpits are generally caused by benign (not dangerous) conditions.

If lymphoma or other tumors are the cause of the itchiness then other symptoms would be present such as changes in the skin (redness, thickening, etc) or presence of enlarged lymph nodes that would be felt in the armpits, groins, neck, etc. Also, weight loss, mild fever and a general feeling of being unwell would be expected in the case of cancer.
The fact that all the tests came out normal is another reassuring factor that the itchiness in your case is not related to a serious condition.

So, I would say you do not need to worry about the itching related to a worrisome condition.

Furthermore, I would like to explain that an allergic reaction or sensitivity to a certain chemical is developed against chemicals we have used for a while. So, it could be due to developing a reaction to a deodorant you have been using for a long time.

I would advise you to avoid any perfumed chemicals in your armpits (soaps or deodorants). Use loose cotton clothes, which are not too tight and generally do not cause local irritation. You may also choose to use a steroid cream twice a day for a week or two (Hydrocortisone) to help with the itchiness.

I hope this answers your query.
I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj
General and Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Antoneta Zotaj (8 hours later)

Hi Doctor,

Thanks for your reply.

Could it be a reaction or sensitivity without a rash present? Your respose ended mid sentance so im not sure what you meant.

thankyou

Answered by Dr. Dr. Antoneta Zotaj (5 hours later)

Brief Answer

It may happen that itchiness be the only symptom of a reaction

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome back,

I am sorry my response ended mid-sentence, I wonder how as it is complete on my side.

Yes, it may happen to have an allergic reaction even if you do not have a rash. Most of the time it is expected to develop rash but itchiness may be present, in a few cases, as the only symptom.

If you notice any redness or skin thickness or any of the above symptoms I mentioned you will need to see your doctor again.

I hope this answers your query.
I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj
General and Family Physician

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D