Bumps in the underarm may itch, tingle, ache, or be tender to the touch. Some bumps may not bother you at all, except for their sudden, unexplained presence. Your underarm-bumps may only be a minor allergic reaction or the bumps could be a sign of a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention.
Benign Causes
Bumps in the underarm are not always serious. If you've recently shaved, waxed or done any kind of hair removal, you may have irritated the skin, causing bumps to form. The bumps may be razor burn or ingrown hairs, especially if they are small and red or skin-colored. You may have a slight allergic reaction or irritation from the ingredients in your deodorant. The bumps could also be a reaction to a new medication. Painful, red bumps that become inflamed and leak pus may be hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic disease that occurs when sweat glands and hair follicle openings become blocked, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
Malignant Causes
Some underarm-bumps are more serious, especially in women. A hard lump or knot in the underarm may be a sign of breast cancer. Lumps may also indicate Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, leukemia and AIDS, warns Medline Plus. Bumps may be a sign of a bacterial infection, which you may have contracted from shaving with a dirty razor, for example. An infection of the lymph nodes, called lymphadenitis, may present in your underarms via swollen, tender or hard lymph nodes, which may be red in color. Other causes include chickenpox, mononucleosis and shingles. Shingles is generally very painful.
Diagnosis
Only your doctor can diagnose your bumps. Your treatment will depend on the diagnosis. Keep a record of your bumps, including when they formed and how they've developed, noting any changes in color, size or location. Mention any other symptoms you've experienced and any changes in medication or any changes in your underarm products. Your doctor may biopsy a lump to determine if it's cancerous. Blood work, mammograms and x-rays may be necessary.
Over-the-Counter Treatment
You can treat most benign bumps at home. For razor bumps and ingrown hairs, stop shaving for the time being. Wash the area and apply an antiseptic cream to prevent infection. Always shave in the direction your hair grows to prevent irritation. If your deodorant is the cause, stop its use immediately and wait for the bumps to clear. Then, use a milder deodorant without fragrances or dyes. If you suspect an allergic reaction, take an antihistamine. For a mild case of hydradenitis suppurativa, soothe the area with a warm compress and take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory to reduce swelling and pain.
Warnings
Do not try to diagnose your own bumps. Even if you think you only irritated yourself shaving, you should call your doctor before self-treating. Bumps in the underarm area can be a warning sign of a life-threatening condition. While most bumps are not contagious, if you have shingles, you should stay away from anyone who has not had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine. Always wash your hands before and after touching your bumps, and keep the area clean with anti-bacterial soap and warm water.
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