Seek care urgently if you have any of these
- A hard, fixed lump that does not move
- A lump growing over weeks
- Night sweats or weight loss alongside
- A breast lump on the same side
- Lump present more than 4 weeks
- Multiple enlarged nodes in different areas
If any of the above applies, do not wait for an appointment — go to the nearest emergency department.
Not sure how serious it is?
Answer three quick questions. We will open WhatsApp with your answers written out, so you do not have to explain twice.
How long?
Is it painful?
Anything else?
Nothing is saved on this website. Your answers only go into the WhatsApp message you send.
What usually causes this
Reactive lymph node
Responding to infection in the arm, breast or chest. Tender, mobile, settles.
Hidradenitis or blocked gland
Recurrent painful lumps in the armpit, often with scarring over time.
Abscess
Hot, red, very painful and often needing drainage.
Breast tissue extension
Normal breast tissue extends into the armpit and can feel lumpy cyclically.
Persistent lymphadenopathy
A hard, fixed or growing node needs assessment rather than observation.
What we would check
Soft Tissue UltrasoundDistinguishes node from cyst or abscess Breast UltrasoundWhere a breast lump is present on the same side Full Blood CountScreens for infection and blood disordersOther symptoms people ask about
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. It cannot replace being examined. All visits to Mascot Healthcare are by appointment — Mon–Sat, 9AM–5PM, 52 Sholanke Street, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos.