Central axillary lymph nodes. Inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arm - causes, photos, treatment and drugs

An enlarged lymph node under the armpits can be triggered by many diseases. In most cases, the state of the immune links is normalized after the elimination of the provoking factor. If this does not happen, then diagnosis and treatment are required.

The proliferation of lymphoid tissue is provoked allergic reactions varying degrees of severity. In this case, it is accompanied by signs of body sensitization to external stimuli (rhinitis, swelling, rash).

In the axillary region, an increase in lymph nodes is observed due to furunculosis. However, this disease is often secondary, that is, it occurs against the background of other pathologies, in particular, hormonal imbalance.

The disorder can be caused by inflammation of the axillary hair follicles or as a result of infection from mammary glands into axillary immune links. In rare cases, pathology is provoked oncological diseases: breast or breast cancer. This reason accounts for more than 10% of cases.

The main reasons for the swollen lymph nodes under the armpits:

• rubella;
• HIV infection, tuberculosis;
• decreased immunity during pregnancy;
• sprain upper limbs (because of this, the axillary lymph node often enlarges in men);
• allergy;
• peripheral neuropathy in diabetes;
• menses;
• cat scratch disease;
• reaction to certain types of vaccines;
• fungal infection;
• bacterial contamination;
• melanoma;
• brucellosis;
• silicone breast implants;
• measles;
• infectious mononucleosis;
• toxoplasmosis;
• SARS, especially influenza, including after recovery;
• adenovirus infection;
• mastopathy;
• regular, profuse sweating, which provokes the growth of bacteria;
• lymphoma;
• scratches, abrasions in the armpit;
• an animal bite near an inflamed formation.

The proliferation of lymphoid tissue is due to an increase in the number of lymphocytes, which are concentrated at the site of inflammation, and indicates work immune system... Then, when the lymph node under the arm is enlarged, but does not hurt, we are talking about lymphadenopathy. This condition is observed by various reasons... The doctor will help to establish a specific one.

With lymphoma, the formations do not decrease even after the course antibacterial drugs... However, the lack of effect of treatment does not always indicate the oncological nature of the pathology. In the case of malignant damage to the immune links, they increase as a result of the accumulation of atypical cells in the body. Therapy in the early stages of the disease has the most favorable prognosis for the patient.

Axillary lymph nodes with mastopathy increase in 10% of cases. Many women experience an overgrowth of axillary lymphoid tissue during pregnancy, which is due to a decrease in immunity. During the gestational period, pathology can be triggered by the use of inappropriate cosmetics (deodorants, etc.), since at this time the body's susceptibility to external stimuli increases.

An enlarged lymph node in the armpit of a child

In children, education becomes larger due to infectious diseases, as well as damage to the skin of the hands and shoulders. The pathology is sometimes caused by "cat scratch disease" that develops when a stray cat bites or scratches.

To prevent inflammatory process the damaged area under the arm of the child should be treated with an antiseptic (iodine or brilliant green solution) as soon as possible.

Signs of overgrowth of axillary lymphoid tissue

The enlargement of the axillary lymph nodes is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• redness of the skin in the area of \u200b\u200bthe affected area;
• discomfort during palpation;
• a feeling of stiffness when moving your hands;
• weakness in the whole body;
• with an inflammatory process - an increase in local and total temperature, pain in the immune link;
• nausea;
• in advanced cases - lymph node pulsation when probing it.

Signs of pathology are most pronounced if the disease proceeds in a purulent form. At the initial stage, the body temperature rises slightly, then the person feels fever or chills. In this case, it is often required surgical intervention.

It is important to know what an enlarged axillary lymph node looks like, since it is easy to confuse it with a cyst resulting from the entry of pathogenic microbes into the sweat glands. For a correct diagnosis, you need to see a doctor.

If the lymph node hurts, but is not enlarged, then this probably indicates an inflammatory process. In this case, a specialist consultation is required to help establish a diagnosis.

Diagnostics of the enlarged lymph nodes under the armpits

Deviation from the norm is detected by examining the patient and palpating the formations. In addition, laboratory and instrumental methods... Typically recommended:

Pathology treatment

The therapist will tell you which doctor to contact with an increase in lymph nodes under the arm. It is he who must be visited first of all. The therapist himself will prescribe treatment or refer you to an infectious disease specialist, surgeon, mammologist or other specialist.

To cope with the increase in lymph nodes under the armpits, you need to find the cause of this condition and eliminate it. Most likely, this will lead to the normalization of the size of the formations. In addition, it is recommended:

• limit physical activity;
• if necessary, undergo physiotherapy;
• use funds for local application (ointments, compresses);
• treat the affected area with chloroethyl, combining it with vaseline compresses and heparin ointment.

Antibiotics are prescribed only by a doctor. With purulent enlargement of formations, surgical intervention is usually performed, during which drainage of the affected immune link is performed.

IN rehabilitation period appointed:

• antibiotics;
• vitamin and mineral complexes;
• anti-inflammatory and warming compresses;
• a low-carb diet;
• analgesics.

With the viral nature of the disease, they are used antiviral drugs... For the general strengthening of the body, the use of vitamins and minerals, as well as immunity stimulants, is practiced.

Folk remedies for enlarged axillary lymph nodes

These prescriptions can only be used with the approval of a physician in conjunction with official treatment:

1. To relieve inflammation, take 1/2 tsp. echinacea, diluted in a quarter glass of warm water.
2. The onions are baked, chopped to a state of gruel. Add 1 tbsp to the mixture. l. tar. The resulting composition is applied to a bandage and fixed on the affected areas for a maximum of 8 hours.
3. Boil mint leaves, moisten gauze in a solution and apply compresses to the enlarged formations for 2 hours.
4. A decoction of yellow root is used in an amount of 10 tsp. in a day.
5. 1 tbsp. l. calendula is crushed, 250 ml of boiling water is poured, insisted for 1 hour. Take 50 ml of the product 5 times a day before meals.

To improve immunity, foods rich in ascorbic acid are introduced into the diet.

The role of lymph nodes in the body

What are lymphadenopathies?

Is it dangerous to enlarge the lymph nodes in the armpits?

The role of lymph nodes in the body

Their normal sizes are from 5 to 10 mm in length, the size depends on age, characteristics of a person's constitution, and some other factors. Swollen lymph nodes are called lymphadenopathy and can be associated with a number of diseases. First of all, those of them are involved that are located near the focus of infection or an organ affected by the pathological process. Axillary lymph nodes can react to painful processes of the upper extremities, neck, shoulder, breast, breast. Why is this happening?

Through the outflowing vessels from the lymph node to the site of inflammation, lymphocytes, immunologically tuned to destroy foreign proteins, enter.

Reasons why axillary lymph nodes are enlarged

• A banal reason for armpit pain is blockage and inflammation of sweat glands and hair follicles, an attempt to treat them with home remedies. This is facilitated by the use of deodorants, insufficient adherence to hygiene rules, excessive sweating, especially in obese people. This is often the case in people with diabetes.
• The lobule of the mammary gland looks like an enlarged axillary lymph node, sometimes appearing in the armpit during pregnancy and lactation. An experienced doctor can recognize it, he doesn't even need a puncture. There is no need to treat her.
• Another reason is boils or festering wounds on the arms, in the chest, shoulder.
• With an increase in lymph nodes, both under the armpits and other localization, a number of diseases of a viral nature can occur in children. For example, infectious mononucleosis, measles, chickenpox. In this case, you need to treat the underlying disease.
• Psoriasis, neurodermatitis, eczema and others skin diseases can also cause lymphadenopathy.

With HIV infection, an increase in various groups of lymph nodes, including armpits, is one of the first symptoms of the disease.

Armpit lymph nodes may be enlarged with mastitis and other types of mastopathy in women.

As you can see, the so-called armpit bumps are often symptoms of very serious diseases. Therefore, everything that worries under the arm: swelling, pain, redness, requires careful attention and a mandatory medical examination. If cancer is suspected, a biopsy is sometimes helpful.

What are lymphadenopathies?

Swelling, complaints of pain and redness in the armpit are symptoms of acute axillary lymphadenitis. It may be accompanied by fever, chills, and malaise. One or more nodes become inflamed. They can remain mobile or be fused to surrounding tissues. Treatment in such cases requires the use of antibiotics.

But the armpit node does not always hurt. For example, pain is absent in acute lymphadenitis caused by tuberculosis or syphilis.

With non-inflammatory enlargement of the lymph node under the arm in the case of breast cancer, blood diseases, pain may be absent.

What to do if the armpit node is enlarged?

Therefore, if the lymph node is swollen, a visit to the doctor is required. He knows how the lymph nodes look in different pathologies, he knows the symptoms of diseases that may be accompanied by their increase. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe studies that will help clarify the diagnosis and correct treatment.

With mastopathy in women during breast surgery, a biopsy of the axillary lymph nodes is mandatory. If earlier, with breast cancer, not only the tumor was removed, but all lymph nodes were removed by the armpits, now a biopsy of the so-called sentinel lymph node, which first receives lymph from the breast, helps to check for metastases. It is less traumatic for women than removing a large number of lymph nodes under the armpit.

How are enlarged lymph nodes under the armpit treated?

If you are worried about an enlarged lymph node under the armpit, treating it with home remedies, without knowing the cause, is unacceptable. The consequences of this can be dire. We need a correct diagnosis, according to which the doctor will treat the patient.

The presented materials are general information and cannot replace the advice of a doctor.

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If the lymph nodes are enlarged under the armpits, what to do

Why are the lymph nodes under the armpits inflamed: causes

1. Colds (even mild discomfort and a stuffy nose can cause inflammation).
2. Oncology (presence of a tumor).
3. Infections (acute and chronic forms).
4. Poor condition of the mammary glands.

A healthy person does not feel the lymph nodes. It is even difficult to probe them. During illness, they increase. Palpation becomes painful. Most often it is unpleasant to even move, because any movement is reflected in the armpit.

Inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes often causes abscesses. Here we include boils, erysipelas, ulcers, blood clots. Dangerous diseases of the oral cavity from angina to caries.

With a cold they swell the lymph nodes due to active struggle. The immune system strains and opens up weak points. In such cases, you just need to fight the disease, and the lymph nodes will then return to normal.

Inflammation of the hair follicles under the armpits also shows up in the lymph nodes. It can even cause fever, nausea, and severe pain. Any lumps in the chest are especially dangerous. They need to be examined urgently.

Important! There are two more reasons that sometimes lead to swollen lymph nodes under the armpits. These are allergies and trauma. They meet less often, but this is worth remembering.

How to identify inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpits: symptoms

• swollen lymph nodes;
• discomfort when moving;
• painful palpation;
• reddish skin tone.

Often these discomfort can be tolerated for months. This is the main difficulty. There is a disease in the body that is gradually gaining momentum, and no one is dealing with it.

• severe pain in the armpits;
• the size of the lymph nodes is very large, so that they are clearly visible;
• elevated temperature;
• chills, weakness, nausea.

Here, the patient can no longer tolerate pain. Needed urgent help... The doctor must make an accurate diagnosis, because only the elimination of the cause will lead inflamed lymph node under the arm back to normal.

• active formation of pus;
• critical body temperature;
• fever;
• strong ripple in the area of \u200b\u200bthe lymph nodes.

At this stage, surgery is most often prescribed, since pus is a danger to the patient's life. The surgeon removes the accumulation of harmful substances and puts everything in order. But here you also need to understand the reasons, because everything can happen again.

For fast and effective treatment you need to make an appointment with a doctor at the first stage. After all, even slight discomfort cannot be called the norm. When dangerous diseases urgent diagnosis plays an important role.

Features of pain

Due to the fact that the problem area is under the arms, any movement provokes even more pain. The enlargement of the axillary lymph nodes in men most often occurs in the central axillary zone. Women, however, note a sharp pain between the armpit and the mammary gland. Lymph node throbbing can be confusing. It will seem that the point is in the chest itself.

You can reduce discomfort with a special ointment or lotion. They must be used according to the instructions so as not to harm. But this is only a disguise. The pain will return if the cause is not found.

Examination rules: diagnostics

The doctor must examine the patient. Its diagnosis depends on several factors:

If there is a suspicion of tuberculosis, then you need to go through an X-ray, a Mantoux test and analyze the sputum. Serological tests should be taken to remove doubts about syphilis or HIV. Oncology is checked through a lymph node puncture.

Particular attention should be paid to ultrasound. This examination more clearly shows the condition of the lymph nodes and may indicate a problem.

Important! Sometimes the doctor cannot determine the cause of the inflammation. In this case, you need to carefully evaluate oral cavity... If there is caries, the gums are swollen or the throat is red, then we can conclude that the influence of these infections leads to problems in the lymph nodes.

Treatment: how to restore health and remove inflammation

The main task is to eliminate the main problem. But we must not forget about the lymph nodes. They need to be brought to a calm state. Here you can use the following methods:

• electrophoresis;
• anti-inflammatory compresses or ointments;
• spraying with chloroethyl;
• heparin ointment.

Even severe pains should go away in a day. But it is worth remembering that these methods cannot be used in the last stages of inflammation, when the lymph nodes are filled with pus.

If inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arm was caused by serious illness, for example, tuberculosis, then treatment will take place in a hospital.

In case of discharge of pus, it is necessary to take the patient to the operation. The surgeon will open the enlarged lymph nodes under the armpit and clean them. Malignant tumor is treated only with chemotherapy.

How to prevent inflammation: prevention

All prevention is about maintaining good health. Strengthening the immune system not only relieves patients from constant colds, but also protects from inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpits.

Nutrition should be as correct as possible. I improve the immunity of vegetables and fruits, meat in boiled and stewed form. Walks in the fresh air are useful. At home, you should always clean up on time so that you don't have to breathe dust.

The ideal remedy is a rosehip decoction. Enough to throw a handful of dry berries into boiling water, wait 20 minutes and you're done. An adult should drink one glass a day, and a child should drink half that.

Another point is the timely treatment of injuries and wounds. Even a small cut can get infected. A simple antiseptic will disinfect the weak point.

Important! Squeezing pimples, shaving your armpits are also opportunities to get infected through microscopic cuts.

If the lymph node is inflamed, do not bring to last stage, you need to treat colds and infectious diseases in time. If necessary, you should go to the hospital to be under the supervision of doctors. This is especially true for children.

The lymph nodes under the armpits are professional beacons that alert the body of a problem. It is necessary to react to these signs in time, since you can never know in advance the complexity of the diagnosis. Sexual infections, tuberculosis, cancer require treatment to be started as early as possible.

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The lymph node under the arm can become inflamed and sore for a variety of reasons. This group of lymph nodes is characterized by a superficial location, so any pathology in this area has specific symptoms that are easy to detect. First, you need to figure out where exactly these lymph nodes are located, how violations of their work manifest themselves, and what causes can provoke inflammation.

Unpleasant sensations in the armpit area, radiating to the arm and chest, are often the first sign of inflammation of the lymph nodes localized in the armpit.

Axillary lymph nodes are a group of superficial lymph nodes that are found in the axillary fossa and along the pectoralis muscle. They are located in the subcutaneous fat, are large in size and react sharply to pathological processes throughout the body.

Disruption of the axillary lymph nodes is an alarming signal indicating a malfunction of the immune system. In addition, enlargement of the lymph nodes in the axillary fossa and axillary region is one of the typical manifestations of breast cancer, so disorders on the part of these organs of the lymphatic system cannot be ignored.

The lymph node under the armpit can enlarge and become inflamed in response to various infectious diseases. Due to the superficial location and large size of the lymph nodes in the armpit, it will not be difficult to suspect the onset of the pathological process, since a specific symptom of disorders on the part of these organs is their increase. The main thing is to find where the axillary lymph nodes are located. The development of inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arm is easy to diagnose at an early stage by the characteristic swelling of the node and the appearance of pain.

Location and function

The lymph nodes in the armpits are located in the fatty tissue of the axillary fossa. They are located in the center of the fossa, on the inside and outside of the armpit, and near the pectoral muscle. This group often includes the subscapular lymph nodes located in a chain from the outer edge of the axillary fossa to the area under the scapula. The anatomical diagram will help to understand the location of the lymph nodes under the arm in more detail.

The lymph node is essential body human lymphatic system. It is a small formation in the subcutaneous fat layer, mainly bean-shaped or rounded. The knot structure is homogeneous and rather dense. The axillary lymph nodes are arranged in clusters. They are distinguished by their superficial location, so they are easy to palpate.

Their main function is to cleanse the lymph of toxins and infections, as well as saturate it with immune cells (lymphocytes) for their further transfer into the blood. In fact, these formations act as a filter for the whole organism. The intercellular fluid enters the nodes through the lymphatic vessels, is processed, and then used to transport immune cells and other important substances into circulatory system.

Axillary lymph nodes react sharply to pathologies of the mediastinal organs and mammary glands, therefore their enlargement or inflammation is alarming symptom, which requires a comprehensive examination.

The condition of the lymph nodes in the armpits is a kind of marker of the health of the whole organism. Due to the peculiarities of their location, they are the first to react to serious malfunctions in the body. Swollen lymph nodes are an important diagnostic sign of systemic infectious diseases, autoimmune processes and oncology.

Sizes in children and adults

In children under the age of three, the axillary lymph nodes may be constantly slightly enlarged and there is no need to worry about this

The number of lymph nodes and their size is a physiological feature of each person. So, the body can have from 300 to 800 lymph nodes. How many lymph nodes a person has under the arm is difficult to say. On average, each person has between 5 and 20 axillary lymph nodes. If we take into account the axillary lymph nodes located along the vessels of the mammary glands, this number can be up to 40 lymph nodes on the right and left. An anatomical diagram will help to understand in more detail where the lymph nodes are under the arm.

The normal size of the axillary lymph nodes is a purely individual value. The normal size of the lymph nodes in the armpits is a diameter of 3 to 10 mm. At the same time, in some people, the size may be very small (1-3 mm), while in others, the lymph nodes can reach 1-2 cm in diameter. The number and size of axillary lymph nodes also depend on the characteristics of the organism. Axillary lymph nodes run along the vessels of the mammary gland, near the inner corner of the axillary fossa. On average, their dimensions are 1-3 mm.

You should pay attention to the fact that the lymph nodes in the armpits are located superficially, but the nodes near the mammary glands are deeply located, therefore they are not palpable.

In children, axillary lymph nodes may be constantly slightly enlarged. This is observed before the age of three, and is associated with the peculiarities of the child's immune system. At this age, the axillary lymph nodes are easily palpable, and their size can reach 10 mm in diameter. With strong immunity in a child, the lymph nodes in the armpits are about 3-5 mm in size. In children, the size of axillary lymph nodes is normally no more than 3 mm.

For self-diagnosis, you should know how to feel the lymph nodes under the arm. To do this, you need to raise your hand and place the other hand in the armpit so that your fingers touch its center. Then you should gently feel the entire fossa with your fingers, moving from the center to the chest and back. It is quite easy to find the lymph nodes in the armpit due to the superficial arrangement of the lymph nodes in the armpit.

When to see a doctor?

For a number of reasons, axillary lymph nodes can become enlarged and inflamed. Such violations are due to various diseases, accompanied by a decrease in immunity. If in some cases a slight increase in the node does not pose a danger and is a natural reaction of the body to the disease, then with inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arm, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible, since such a violation indicates an infection of the organ of the lymphatic system.

Alarming symptoms to watch out for:

• a noticeable increase in the lymph node;
• pain on palpation;
• increased body temperature;
• general malaise and weakness.

Many do not know which doctor heals the lymph nodes and which doctor to contact for inflammation or enlargement of the lymph node under the arm. First of all, you should consult a therapist. With a sharp soreness of the lymph nodes in women, it is imperative to be examined by a mammologist.

Lymph node dysfunction

Infections entering the body affect the lymph node in the armpits, causing inflammation

If the lymph node under the arm becomes inflamed, the cause should be sought in infectious diseasesx. An increase in the size of the lymph node is associated with a weakening immune defense and may indicate both inflammatory processes in the organs chest and mammary glands, and oncology.

In general, an enlargement of the lymph node occurs due to the fact that the lymphatic system for some reason ceases to cope with its function. First of all, this is due to the work of the immune system. Under normal conditions, the lymph nodes constantly cleanse the lymph from nearby tissues and organs, from infections and toxins. Lymph supplies antibodies and lymphocytes (immune cells) to the bloodstream, which help fight various infections. In the case of severe diseases (inflammation, infection, cancer), a large number of infectious agents, toxins and cancer cells enter, but the node cannot cope with such a load. As a result, infections hit the node, causing inflammation of the axillary lymph node.

Axillary lymphadenopathy

Having figured out what the armpit lymph node is and where exactly it is located, you should know about the diseases that can affect these organs.

The most common disorder is lymphadenopathy, or swollen lymph nodes. Lymphadenopathy is not a complete disease, but rather a symptom of various pathologies.

The lymph nodes in the armpit are responsible for cleansing the lymph flowing from the mediastinal organs, mammary glands and upper extremities. Any pathology of these organs can negatively affect the work of the lymph nodes, which provokes the development of lymphadenopathy.

Symptoms of this pathology:

• a noticeable increase in lymph nodes;
• discomfort on palpation;
• night sweats;
• general weakness.

It should be noted that pain in lymphadenopathy is mild and occurs only when pressing on the node.

There are many reasons for such a violation - from infections to malignant neoplasms in the internal organs. In children, an increase in axillary lymph nodes may be associated with childhood infectious diseases - chickenpox, rubella, measles. These diseases are accompanied by an increase in all large lymph nodes, therefore, lymphadenopathy of the cervical and inguinal nodes can also be observed.

The most common causes of axillary lymphadenopathy are:

• infectious mononucleosis;
• tuberculosis;
• mastopathy;
• sarcoidosis;
• lymphoma;
• breast cancer;
• lungs' cancer;

It is possible to accurately identify the cause only with the help of a comprehensive examination. Treatment of lymphadenopathy is not carried out, the size of the lymph nodes return to normal several months after the elimination of the underlying disease.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes

A specific symptom of inflammation of the lymph nodes (lymphadenitis) is an enlarged liver

Having found inflamed lymph nodes in the armpits, you should be examined by a doctor as soon as possible. it dangerous symptomwhich requires adequate drug therapy... Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpits is called lymphadenitis. This pathology of an infectious nature, arising from the penetration of infection into the lymph node.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpit, the reasons for the development of which are varied, is accompanied by severe pain, therefore it is impossible to “miss” this disease. Symptoms of armpit lymph node inflammation:

• severe edema and a significant increase in the size of the lymph node;
• sharp pain;
• high body temperature;
• armpit skin redness;
• symptoms of general intoxication;
• weakness and general malaise.

If the lymph node in the armpit is inflamed, there is an increase in body temperature over 38 degrees. In the case of purulent inflammation, the temperature can increase up to 40 degrees. Signs of inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpit are acute. Often there is severe intoxication of the body, which is manifested by weakness, nausea, loss of appetite and headache. Patients often complain of worsening sleep, which is associated with an exacerbation of pain at night.

As a rule, lymphadenitis is manifested by inflammation on one side of the body, for example, in the right or left armpit, while pain can spread to the entire side of the body, disturbing the right or left side.

Another specific symptom of lymphadenitis is an increase in the size of the liver and spleen. In severe cases, this can be felt by severity and pressure in the right hypochondrium, but most often this symptom does not appear, and an enlargement of organs is diagnosed by ultrasound.

Not everyone knows what causes the lymph nodes under the arm to become inflamed, mistaking lymphadenitis for an independent disease, but without trying to identify its cause. The main causes of inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes are various infectious lesions of organs located in the immediate vicinity of this group of organs of the lymphatic system. As a rule, the inflammatory process occurs against the background of infection of the node with staphylococcus, streptococcus, E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Armpit lymph nodes can become inflamed against the background of the following diseases:

• tuberculosis;
• syphilis;
• gonorrhea;
• mastitis;
• furunculosis;
• hydradenitis.

Inflamed lymph nodes under the arms, the causes of infection of which are hidden in the infection of the body with mycobacteria (the causative agent of tuberculosis), require urgent treatment... It should be noted that inflammation of the lymph nodes against the background of tuberculosis can act as the first symptom of infection with Koch's bacillus, even before the onset of cough, and as a complication of an untreated disease.

The spread of the causative agent of syphilis (treponema pale) can lead to infection of large lymph nodes. As a rule, in this case, the axillary node, inguinal and cervical lymph nodes can become inflamed.

In the overwhelming majority of cases, with inflammation of the lymph nodes, the cause should be sought in infectious diseases of organs located as close as possible to the focus of lymphadenitis. If the lymph node is inflamed in the armpit, first you should exclude diseases such as furunculosis and hydradenitis. Hydradenitis is called purulent inflammation sweat gland. This pathology develops when the glands of the armpits are infected with pyogenic bacteria. Most often, the causative agent is Staphylococcus aureus. The disease is manifested by the formation of a large cavity in the armpit, filled with pus, and manifests itself in severe pain both on palpation and at rest.

Furunculosis is an inflammation of the hair follicles. A large abscess (furuncle) forms on the skin, a necrotic core is visible, the skin around the area of \u200b\u200binflammation turns red and swells. This disease is also associated with infection of the epidermis with staphylococcus. The infection can penetrate through small wounds and scratches, especially when personal hygiene is not observed and the armpits are not properly epilated.

Having figured out where the lymph nodes are located in the armpit, and what an inflamed lymph node looks like, you should consult a doctor when the first symptoms of inflammation appear. A purulent inflammatory process in the lymph node is potentially dangerous by infection of the whole body, therefore it is necessary to start treatment in a timely manner in order to avoid dangerous complications.

Pain in the lymph nodes in women

The armpit lymph node in women and girls can become inflamed due to mastitis

The lymph nodes react to any changes in the body. In addition to the listed reasons, an increase in lymph nodes may be associated with a change in hormonal levels. In many women, the lymph nodes swell a few days before menstruation, and there is mild armpit tenderness. This condition is not a pathology in most cases, and is one of the manifestations of premenstrual syndrome.

Important! If a woman has always had soreness in the lymph nodes before menstruation, this phenomenon can be considered a variant of the norm. In case of a sudden onset of pain and swollen lymph nodes, you should undergo a comprehensive examination as soon as possible, visit a mammologist and gynecologist.

In women suffering from PMS, the enlargement of the lymph nodes is due to the difficult outflow of lymph from the mammary glands due to fluid retention before menstruation, but there should be no inflammation. Soreness on palpation of the lymph nodes in this case is due to mechanical irritation of the surrounding tissues, and not an inflammatory process.

The armpit lymph node in women can become inflamed due to mastitis. This disorder develops due to infection of the breast. As a rule, mastitis occurs in lactating women and occurs shortly after childbirth. If a woman has breastfeeding the lymph node under the arm has become inflamed, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible, since you cannot continue lactation with mastitis.

Symptoms of inflammation in the axillary lymph nodes in women are the same as in inflammation of this group of lymph nodes in men.

Lymph nodes in cancer

Cancer is another cause of swollen and inflamed lymph nodes in the armpits. This group of lymph nodes reacts to cancer of the breast, lungs, trachea. In addition, axillary lymph nodes can enlarge and thicken with lymphoma, a malignant process of lymphoid tissue.

Swelling and swelling of the lymph nodes in the armpits may indicate, or malignant processes in other organs. And with cancer internal organs lymph nodes increase as a natural reaction of the body to a malignant process against the background of general intoxication, and when metastases spread to the lymphatic system.

Important! An enlarged axillary lymph node without any other symptoms may indicate early stage cancer.

When malignant neoplasms of internal organs, the lymph node often does not hurt or inflame, but it increases in size. At the same time, the risk of infection increases, since the weakened body is vulnerable to pathogens.

Swollen axillary lymph nodes and swelling of the arm

Knowing why the lymph nodes in the armpits in women are inflamed and how to determine the inflammatory process, you should also pay attention to such a symptom as swelling of the upper extremities. This pathology is called lymphostasis and is characterized by impaired lymph outflow. The reason may be mechanical damage lymphatic vessels entering the axillary lymph nodes, which ensure the outflow of lymph from the hands.

Typical symptoms: an increase in arm volume, heaviness in the limbs,. This disease is very dangerous and difficult to treat in advanced forms, therefore, axillary lymph nodes should be checked if swelling appears.

Diagnostics

Women must be prescribed mammography for inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpits

What to do if the lymph node under the arm is inflamed, how to treat these lymph nodes - it depends on the cause of their malfunction. To prescribe the optimal treatment regimen for inflamed lymph nodes under the arm, you should visit a doctor and undergo a comprehensive examination to identify the causes of the pathology.

Required examinations:

• general and biochemical analyzes blood;
• chest x-ray;
• fluorography;
• mammography.

On the basis of a blood test, it is possible to exclude lymphoma, as well as identify inflammatory processes and determine abnormalities in the work of immunity by quantitative changes in lymphocytes. Ultrasound of the lymph nodes allows you to accurately determine the type of pathology - lymphadenopathy or lymphadenitis. If you suspect lymphostasis, an X-ray of the lymphatic vessels with contrast is additionally done.

Chest X-ray is necessary to identify pathologies of the mediastinum, and fluorography allows you to identify tuberculosis, pneumonia, sarcoidosis.

Mammography is mandatory for women. This examination allows you to identify pathological changes in the tissues of the mammary glands - mastopathy, mastitis, malignant neoplasms.

After all the examinations are carried out, the doctor concludes on how to treat the inflamed lymph node under the arm and how to cure the underlying disease.

Treatment principles

How to treat inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arm depends on the cause of the pathology. First of all, therapy of the underlying disease is carried out, since if the cause is not eliminated, symptomatic therapy of lymphadenitis or lymphadenopathy will be ineffective.

Treatment of inflammatory processes in the body should be prescribed by a doctor, but with inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arm, they must be used antibacterial therapy... Proven agents are broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Additionally, symptomatic therapy can be used to reduce pain and inflammation.

During treatment, the patient must adhere to a diet (“Table 15”). The purpose of this diet is to generally strengthen the body by ensuring that all essential substances with food.

Drug treatment

If the lymph nodes under the armpit are inflamed, antibiotics are prescribed first. Treatment is carried out on an outpatient basis, that is, at home, drugs are prescribed in the form of tablets or capsules, less often injections are prescribed. The following drugs are widely used in therapy:

• Azithromycin;
• Sumamed;
• Ceftriaxone;
• Amoxiclav.

The listed drugs are different wide range antimicrobial activity. Only a doctor can accurately select the drug, the dosage and duration of the drug intake are selected on an individual basis.

To reduce the severity of the manifestation and symptom of inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arm, drugs of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory group help. These include tablets Ibuprofen, Nimesulide, Nalgezin, Dexalgin. These drugs reduce pain, relieve inflammation, and have antipyretic effects.

Additionally, immunomodulators, phytopreparations (for example, Lymphomyosot) can be prescribed. These medicines do not treat inflammation, but they help lymphatic system recover sooner.

Ointments for the treatment of lymph nodes

The ointment is applied under a bandage, which must be changed twice a day.

Inflamed lymph nodes in the armpit can be treated with external agents - ointments and gels. Such drugs belong to the auxiliary means, since they cannot destroy the infection in the lymph nodes, so taking antibiotics will not replace. How can an inflamed lymph node under the armpit be anointed - this question is asked by many patients who are faced with lymphadenitis.

To reduce the inflammatory process, you can use Vishnevsky liniment or Levomekol ointment. Both drugs have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, accelerate tissue regeneration and reduce pain. The ointment is applied under a bandage, which must be changed twice a day.

With an increase in lymph nodes, the use of heparin ointment is allowed. It eliminates puffiness, has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Before using external treatments, you should consult your doctor.

Folk remedies

Treatment of lymph nodes under the arm folk remedies Is a dubious event. Such treatment is ineffective, but it can significantly aggravate the symptoms and harm health, therefore it should be used with great care.

Important! Infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs will not replace antibiotics.

If the lymph node under the arm is inflamed, folk remedies can be used only as an auxiliary, but not the main treatment. One of the fairly popular tools from the arsenal traditional medicine is a tincture or decoction of echinacea. This plant is natural immunomodulator, and approved by mainstream medicine. The downside is that it takes a long time to cook the tincture yourself, since it should be infused for at least 2 weeks. A good alternative would be to purchase alcohol tincture at the pharmacy, or taking Echinacea tablets.

With inflammation of the lymph node under the arm, treatment with folk remedies can be carried out with the help of anti-inflammatory herbs - calendula, sage, stinging nettle. You should take a small spoonful of each plant, place it in a thermos and pour half a liter of boiling water. The medicine should be infused for 6 hours, and then it can be taken in 100 ml in the morning and in the evening.

The lymphatic system permeates the entire human body and takes a hit in any disease. In certain places there are entire accumulations of lymphoid tissue, in which pathogens are "processed". The lymph node under the arm is one of them.

Localization of lymph nodes

Before talking about inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes, you need to figure out where they are. In the armpit, there is an entire lymphocenter, which includes several lymph nodes of approximately the same size. All of them are located directly in the armpit or next to it. With age, the lymphoid tissue of individual formations grows together, and the lymphocenter turns into one large axillary lymph node.

The lymph nodes in the armpits collect lymph from the shoulders, part of the chest, and upper abdomen. In women, the area of \u200b\u200bthe mammary glands is added to this list. In addition, they are associated with the ulnar lymph nodes. Here lymph is collected from the forelimbs.

The size of the lymph nodes is normal - from 7 to 13 mm. Like all peripheral, axillary lymph glands can be felt and not in an enlarged state.

The main causes of inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes

Lymphatic formations increase if any diseases and infectious bacteria, their waste products, toxins penetrate into the axillary lymph nodes. More information in the review

Why are the lymph nodes under the armpits inflamed:

• infections of viral and bacterial origin;
• diseases of the oral cavity;
• thrombophlebitis;
• putrid skin diseases of the forelimbs;
• diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
• inflammation of the hair follicles;
• damage to the skin in the armpit;
• allergy;
• diseases of the mammary glands and ovaries in women.

These are the causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpits.

However, an enlarged axillary lymph node is not always considered a problem. Sometimes the reason for this may be their overly active work. In this case, there are no painful sensations. You will find about painful lymph nodes in the armpits in the overview

Symptoms

There are two types of axillary lymphadenitis: purulent and purulent.

With non-suppurative inflammation of the lymph nodes, the patient has the following symptoms:

• discomfort when moving;
• enlarged lymph nodes;
• mild pain on palpation;
• slight redness.

Surgical intervention

Such categorical measures are required for a purulent course of lymphadenitis. In some cases, it is necessary for inflammation of the axillary lymph node caused by tuberculosis. More details about the treatment of lymphadenitis caused by tuberculosis are discussed in a separate review: ““.

Local anesthesia may be given during the operation. However, this is very rare: most often it is done only to young children.

A lymph node is opened with a sterile scalpel, and the purulent contents are removed along with the affected tissues. After removal of the focus of inflammation, the wound is washed and drainage is installed to release the newly formed fluid. A bandage is applied. After a week, the drain is removed.

Physiotherapy treatment of axillary lymphadenitis

Appointed as an auxiliary measure. The following methods are used:

• UHF therapy

The duration of the procedure is 7-15 minutes. It is prescribed for intoxication of the body.

• ultraviolet irradiation

Has anti-inflammatory effect. Assign a course of 4-5 sessions.

• laser therapy

Gives an analgesic effect, reduces inflammation, increases blood flow in the irradiated area.

• fluctuating

Sinusoidal alternating current treatment. With lymphadenitis, it is given in medium and large doses. The course is 4-5 sessions lasting 7-10 minutes.

• ultrasound therapy

Promotes the resorption of the fluid inside the node. Assign a course of 8-10 daily sessions lasting up to 7 minutes.

Armpit lymph node: home treatment

Mostly they use traditional medicine methods.

The most popular tincture is echinacea, which is used both externally and internally. Outwardly, it is used as compresses. The drug is mixed with water in a 1: 2 ratio. A clean cloth or gauze is moistened in the resulting solution and applied to the inflamed lymph node.

Inside take 10 drops, diluting them in a glass of warm water. The frequency of administration is 3-4 times a day. With increasing concentration, the frequency of administration is reduced.

To eliminate inflammation, infusion of calendula is used. A tablespoon of raw materials is poured with a glass of boiling water and insisted for 2 hours. Drink 3-4 times a day before meals. Also, based on the infusion of calendula, compresses are made, which are applied to the enlarged lymph node, fixed and kept during the night.

In addition to herbal infusions, warming up the inflamed area is used. The heated sand is placed in a tissue bag and applied to the armpit for 20 minutes. Due to the increase in temperature, the vessels dilate, blood flow improves, and lymph dilutes. After the procedure, the lymph node is kept warm to avoid hypothermia.

The lymphatic system is one of the most complex and cunningly designed human systems.

Its main purpose is to flush dead cells of the body, as well as bacteria, viruses and toxins that have entered the body with food, water and air, into the lymphatic capillaries.

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Always on guard

There are over 500 lymph nodes in the human body.

These tiny glands are, as it were, intermediate pumping stations on the path of lymph movement and at the same time - filtering elements. They perform the duties of sentries, selflessly protecting our body from the encroachments of various harmful viruses and bacteria.

The nurses of this system are protective white bodies (lymphocytes), which are stored in huge quantities in the lymph nodes and do not allow pathogenic microorganisms, as well as cancer cells, into the circulatory system, restraining the development of the disease.

If there are too many “enemies” and the usual number of lymphocytes cannot cope with them, white blood cells begin to multiply actively to eliminate the infection. Such a load affects the state of the lymph nodes: they increase, harden, reddening of the skin appears above them and pain... In medical language, this phenomenon is called lymphadenitis.

So inflammation of the lymph nodes is not an independent disease, but an alarm signaling that something is wrong in the body. Moreover, depending on which lymph nodes are inflamed, it is possible to accurately determine where and what kind of inflammatory process occurs.

Breast lymph

Lymph nodes are an important part of everyone's immune system. In total, there are more than 500 such organs in the body, of which 12-45 can be under the arm. All of them form a system that acts as a mechanical and biological filter that prevents hostile elements from entering the circulatory system:

• foreign particles,
• bacterial infection,
• malignant cells,
• toxic substances,
• foreign proteins.

The lymph of the mammary gland circulates through the lymphatic ducts to the lymph nodes located in the axillary fossa on the same side. These lymph nodes form what is called the axillary lymph node chain.

When the inflammation of the lymph nodes located under the armpits occurs, it is here that the outflow of lymph from the tissues of the mammary glands is directed. Axillary lymph nodes are also called axillary. They cleanse almost 75% of all lymph in the mammary glands, protecting nearby tissues and organs from foreign agents. Most often, these lymph nodes react with an increase in size, as well as an increase in sensitivity to inflammatory or oncological diseases of the mammary glands.

Signs of inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes

Unpleasant sensations in the armpit, radiating to the arm and chest, are often the first sign of inflammation of the lymph nodes localized in the armpit. Enlarged and tender lymph nodes usually do not cause acute pain even on palpation, but at the same time cause pulling pain, which is the cause of constant discomfort and can serve as a symptom of a serious illness that only a doctor can tell about.

As a rule, inflammation of the lymph nodes is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• an increase in size (inflamed nodules protrude from under the skin, reaching the size of a pea, an olive, and sometimes a walnut);
• pain in the lymph nodes;
• general malaise, weakness;
• headache;
• temperature increase.

In this state, the lymph nodes can be from several days to several weeks.

After the infection has been defeated, they should return to normal, that is, become invisible and imperceptible. If these symptoms become more pronounced, the skin in the area of \u200b\u200bthe lymph node turns red, appears strong pain, which means that a purulent process has begun.

In this case, you may need an urgent one. the doctor's consultation.

As a rule, the inflammation of the lymph nodes proceeds the more severe, the more pronounced the infection that caused it.

However, often an increase in the lymph node can be absolutely painless and outwardly, it would seem, completely unrelated to any disease. This indicates a latent infection or that the lymph node managed to neutralize a harmful microbe before the appearance initial signs pathology.

Since inflammation of the lymph nodes is a secondary phenomenon, and not an independent disease, it is worthwhile to understand the reasons.

Monitoring the condition of the breast and regional lymph nodes

An increase in the size of the lymph nodes under the armpit, as well as the supraclavicular / subclavian, is a serious criterion in the diagnosis of breast cancer. In order to detect signs of the disease in a timely manner at an early stage, experts strongly recommend to all women over 20 years of age:

• conduct an independent monthly check of the mammary glands and armpits;
• visit a mammologist at least once a year for a routine examination.

Women of reproductive age should devote one of the days from the 5th to the 12th from the beginning of the examination. menstrual cycle... Ladies who have already entered menopause can be examined / examined on any day of the month.

Unchanged nodes normally have an elastic consistency, they seem soft to the touch. On visual inspection, the place of their localization is invisible.

You should pay attention to the condition of the skin under the armpits. If there is nothing unusual (soreness, swelling, redness), do not worry. Lymph nodes are small and not palpable, but when a danger is detected, their activity increases, an increase occurs. In this case, you must immediately undergo a medical examination.

Learn to heal yourself on your own

You should know it!

The inflamed lymph node should not be heated, massaged or otherwise affected... First of all, you should get rid of the root cause that caused lymphadenitis.

The appearance of nasal congestion, runny nose and cough is also an indicator of the load on the lymph. Before entering the blood, it must flush out the remains of toxins and does this through the mucous membranes and skin. Therefore, you can not interfere with her, for a long time saving herself from a cold with vasoconstrictor drops.

It can disrupt the work of the lymph nodes and deodorant, which blocks the exit of sweat and poisons from the body. With constant use of such agents, poisons will accumulate in this area, gradually saturating nearby tissues.

The liver, which cleanses the body of toxins, is fully included in the work only at night. Therefore, you should not eat a lot at night, so as not to interfere with the body to neutralize the poisons received during the day.

Well-known procedures help to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system: a steam bath with a broom and an abundant drink of tea with currant leaves.

P.S. For all questions, please contact