Should you be worried about a hard pea size lump hidden under the skin on your arm pit if woman?

If you have discovered a hard pea-sized lump hidden under your armpit, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation from a healthcare professional, especially if you are a woman. While it is possible that the lump may be benign, it is important to rule out any potential underlying medical conditions or concerns.

There are several reasons why a pea-sized lump might appear in your armpit. Some possible causes include:

1. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the lymphatic system, which helps fight infections and remove waste from the body. Swollen lymph nodes can occur in response to infections or other inflammatory processes in the body.

2. Fibrocystic Changes: Fibrocystic changes are non-cancerous breast-related conditions that can cause the formation of lumps or cysts in the breast tissue and the surrounding areas, including the armpits. These changes are often associated with hormonal fluctuations during a woman's menstrual cycle.

3. Lipomas: Lipomas are benign, non-cancerous growths composed of fat cells. They can occur anywhere on the body and may feel soft and movable to the touch.

4. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: This is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects the sweat glands in the armpits, groin, or other areas where skin folds. It can cause the formation of painful lumps or abscesses.

5. Rare Conditions: In rare cases, a pea-sized lump in the armpit may also indicate more serious conditions, such as certain types of cancer. However, it is essential to remember that the presence of a lump does not necessarily mean it is cancerous.

Given the potential causes and the importance of accurately diagnosing the nature of the lump, it is crucial to schedule an appointment with your doctor or a healthcare provider who can perform a physical examination, gather additional information, and determine the appropriate course of action. They may recommend imaging tests, biopsies, or other diagnostic procedures if necessary. Self-diagnosis should be avoided, as accurate identification of the cause of a lump requires professional medical expertise.