How to treat a painful and pus-discharging armpit lump?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I had developed a red lump in my armpit, which I thought was not of any concern. However, recently it started to swell and became large. A few days later, the lump popped, and it started leaking fluid and pus, but it was less painful.
Recently, it started hurting again, and when I just looked at it, I noticed a black hole in my armpit with a red ring around it. The ring looks like a ringworm infestation, but it hurts, is swollen, and leaks pus.
The pus was initially yellow but has recently turned reddish or orange. Similar to pus mixed with blood.
- What is this red lump?
- How to treat it?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I have read your query, and I can understand your concern.
What is the size of the swelling?
It seems to be an abscess caused by a superficial bacterial skin infection. I suggest the following treatment:
-
If it is small, then a topical antibiotic like Neomycin can be applied along with an oral antibiotic course. Consult a specialist doctor and take medications with their consent.
-
If it is large, then incision and drainage must be done to express all pus from the lump. It is a minor OPD (outpatient department) procedure of 15 to 30 minutes and is done under local anesthesia.
Hence, kindly consult a nearby general surgeon for examination and treatment.
I hope your concern was resolved.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Related Questions
Sialadenitis - Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Respiratory Bacterial Infections in Cystic Fibrosis
I have rash on penis weeks after handjob. Is it genital herpes?
I have a swelling in the armpit, which is soft and painless. Is it breast cancer?
All About Majocchi's Granuloma
Bacterial Infections on Soft Contact Lenses
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.