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Suggest Treatment For Enlarged Lymph Nodes In The Armpit And Fatigue

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Posted on Sat, 28 Jan 2017
Question: Hello. Thanks in advance for your time. A week ago I noticed I have several enlarged lymph nodes in my armpit that are not on the other side. I can feel 3 or 4 nodes in one armpit with one larger node, but they are still relatively small. I can't feel any at all in my other arm pit. The bigger one feels really hard and has no pain at all. What should I do? Because they are quite small, I'm reluctant to get them checked. But, I have been feeling unwell for a few months with lots of fatigue and pain under my left rib, the same side as the nodes. I'm also getting these annoying sharp itches or scratches that feel like something is biting me really hard on my hands and feet.
doctor
Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Probably infection

Detailed Answer:
dear XXXXXXX enlarged axillary lymph nodes usually occur in reaction to infection and once the infection is treated they return back to normal size slowly within a few weeks.. but they can be a sign of a more serious problem such as breast tumor.. the pain under your left ribs could be due to the same infection that caused your enlarged lymph nodes and this includes 1) lung and bronchi infection if thr pain increases with breathing 2) kidney infection ( pyelonephritis) if the pain is more towards the back 3) colon diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease 4) splenitis which is inflammation of the spleen.. the ichy hands and feet also can be a sign of bacterial or viral infection.. I hope I answered your question
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Follow up: Dr. salah saad shoman (22 hours later)
Thanks doctor. The last time I had an infection was 7-8 weeks ago and I don't think I have an infection now. Could the lump be breast cancer or another cancer? I am asking because I have noticed a decline in my health over the past 3 months and know there's a possibility it could point to something like this. I also know it's unlikely to be sinister but I'm concerned. I would appreciate some pointers to talk to my doctor about. Right now I feel like I don't want to ask in case I'm wasting their time.
doctor
Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Yes

Detailed Answer:
dear XXXXXXX the infection you had 7-8 weeks ago is not the cause of your current lymph node enlargement ..but you could have an infection that is not showing symptoms now.. or an infection that is causing the decline in your health. yes it could be a sign of breast cancer.. some breast cancers can lead to armpit lymph node enlargement before the lump is big enough to be felt. breast cancer is unlikely in your age group.. I recommend you get a mammogram and talk to your doctor when you get the results. I hope I answered your question. if you don't have any other clarifications please close the discussion and rate the answer
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
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Answered by
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Dr. salah saad shoman

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3151 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Enlarged Lymph Nodes In The Armpit And Fatigue

Brief Answer: Probably infection Detailed Answer: dear XXXXXXX enlarged axillary lymph nodes usually occur in reaction to infection and once the infection is treated they return back to normal size slowly within a few weeks.. but they can be a sign of a more serious problem such as breast tumor.. the pain under your left ribs could be due to the same infection that caused your enlarged lymph nodes and this includes 1) lung and bronchi infection if thr pain increases with breathing 2) kidney infection ( pyelonephritis) if the pain is more towards the back 3) colon diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease 4) splenitis which is inflammation of the spleen.. the ichy hands and feet also can be a sign of bacterial or viral infection.. I hope I answered your question