Why do I have painful cysts or boils under my armpits?

Question

Hello doctor,

About three to four weeks ago, I was bitten by something on my right forearm. I am guessing it was a spider. I placed a slice of potato on it overnight. The next day, when I removed the potato, there were multiple spots where it appeared that an infection was trying to come out of my skin. I have been keeping the area clean and covered, and it now looks like most of the spots are almost healed.

However, I am now experiencing very swollen and painful cysts or boils under both of my armpits. What is my body trying to get rid of or tell me? It is becoming difficult to lift my arms, and I can feel the pain starting to affect my shoulders and entire upper body. The pain is extremely severe.

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I am really sorry that this is being experienced. The concern and pain described are completely understandable.

Based on the history provided and the images, the painful and swollen lumps under both armpits are most consistent with a deep bacterial skin infection, such as multiple furuncles or early hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). This may have been triggered after bacteria entered the skin through the initial bite or broken skin on the forearm. The armpits contain many hair follicles, sweat glands, and lymph nodes, which makes them a common area for infections to spread and become very painful. This explains why lifting the arms is difficult and why the discomfort seems to involve the shoulders and upper body.

It is important to understand that the body is not trying to “push something out.” Instead, it is mounting a strong inflammatory response to an active infection. Applying a raw potato to the bite may have unintentionally introduced or trapped bacteria, as raw vegetables are not sterile. Covering the area overnight can allow germs to multiply. This can sometimes lead to the spread of infection through lymphatic channels, resulting in multiple tender and inflamed nodules in areas such as the armpits.

Because the swelling is severe, painful, and affecting both sides, this condition should be assessed urgently in person. Both oral and topical medications are required to control the infection. If the swellings persist despite treatment, some of them may require drainage if pus has collected beneath the skin.

Treatment is advised to control the infection and reduce pain. Apply Clindamycin 1 % lotion as a thin layer over the affected areas in both armpits twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, on clean and dry skin. In addition, take a Doxycycline 100 milligram tablet once daily for two weeks. Doxycycline should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding, but it can otherwise be taken safely. This antibiotic helps treat the infection from within the body.

For pain relief, Acetaminophen may be taken, one tablet twice daily as needed. This will help reduce pain and discomfort. Avoid squeezing or pressing the swollen areas. Keep the armpits clean and dry. Avoid shaving and the use of deodorants for now, and wear loose-fitting clothing. If the swelling worsens, fever develops, or the pain becomes severe despite medication, medical attention should be sought promptly. Otherwise, improvement is usually seen within seven to fourteen days.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.