What Causes Armpit Pain?

Armpit pain is medically referred to as axillary pain. It has many possible causes ranging from nuisance to severe, including injuries, irritations, infections, nerve compressions, or even cancer. Also, armpit pain might occur alone, or it can be accompanied by other signs such as rashes and swollen lymph nodes. Whenever it happens, the diagnosis process starts with a careful examination of a patient's health history followed by a physical exam, followed by blood tests and imaging tests. Uncover the various causes of armpit pain now.

Shingles

The varicella zoster virus, which is responsible for chickenpox and shingles, can result in armpit pain, along with a painful rash. Usually, this rash will occur on the chest, underarms, and back. Shingles can also have other signs of infection, including burning or itching in the affected area and blisters. Additionally, patients can experience intense pain before the rash starts to develop, as well as tingling in the affected area. Treatment for shingles requires an oral antiviral medication, which controls the virus, and at the same time, improves symptoms. If after medication the pain does not reduce, doctors might prescribe medication to relieve pain and inflammation.

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Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease, a circulatory condition, results in the narrowing of the arteries. When the arteries are narrowed, the amount of blood flow also reduces. However, in this condition, blood flow is usually reduced in the arms and legs. Reduced blood flow means both the patients' arms and legs will not be receiving enough blood to keep up with the body's demands. The result is pain upon moving because there is less oxygenated blood reaching the tissues as well as muscles, which requires lots of oxygen to prevent pain. Peripheral artery disease, therefore, often results in armpit pain, as well as pain in other areas.

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