Underarm Pain
Causes of Underarm Pain
While there are many possible reasons that you may be experiencing underarm pain, one thing is common to all of them: it should not be ignored and you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.
Some causes of underarm pain are, of course, more serious than others. Still, pain in any part of the body should not be ignored. There is a reason for it, and that reason must be determined. Below are just some of the many possible causes for underarm pain.
Heart Attack
This cause should be seriously considered if the pain is under the left arm. Do not ignore this pain, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath. This is one of the most common causes of underarm pain.
Nerve Damage
Damage to certain nerves can result in underarm pain. One such example is damage caused to the brachial plexus. This type of injury happens most often to women during the birth process, but there are others possible causes of injury to the brachial plexus as well.
Diabetes
This cause for underarm pain is somewhat related to nerve damage. That is because those suffering from diabetes may experience underarm pain after experiencing nerve damage as a result of their disease.
Some other possible causes include breast issues, lung problems and injury to the area. Naturally, there is no reason to panic if you experience underarm pain, but you should evaluate the situation. Make note of any other symptoms that you may be experiencing. This could help you pinpoint the cause of your pain.
If there is a rash under the arm, ask yourself if you have applied any new type of deodorant or lotion to the area. It could be that you are having an allergic reaction to something in such a product. If there are other symptoms, such as those mentioned above, you will need to determine whether a visit to the emergency room is needed, or if you can wait and make an appointment with your doctor. Below are some symptoms that should cause you to head straight to the emergency room.
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Tightness in chest
Difficulty speaking
Pain that spread across the back or down the arm
It is important not to ignore the symptoms of what could potentially be a life threatening condition. Is all underarm pain related to such conditions? No, but unless you are certain of the source of your pain, it is better to go the doctor to get checked out.
Even if the pain is not being caused by a heart attack, there is some reason for it. The doctor will be able to pinpoint that reason and help ensure that you get the proper treatment.
If you are fairly certain that the pain is caused by a product that you used, you can simply discontinue use of the product. If the rash does not go away in a day or two, you should see your doctor.
Underarm pain is a symptom of something else. Whether serious or not, you need to learn what is causing the pain as that will be the key to stopping it.