Lymphedema (Swollen Lymph Nodes)
Throughout the body, an individual has several lymph nodes. When the glands in the armpits swell up, doctors call the disorder lymphedema. The disorder can be due to hand or arm injury or infection. Lymphedema may also be caused by lymphoma and breast cancer. The swelling is a sign that the body is responding to an illness or infection. As the lymph nodes swell, the armpit’s swelling also occurs. As a result, the armpit will look fatter and bulkier. The underarm area’s bulkiness reduces when the glands’ swelling subsides.
A person with lymphedema will have soft and tender small lumps. Sometimes, they feel pain from the swollen glands. The common cause of the swelling of the lymph nodes is an infection of the upper respiratory system, although there are other causes. But doctors warn that if there is no apparent cause for the swelling, the person should see their healthcare provider immediately.
Under normal circumstances, swelling of the lymph nodes is a good thing because the person knows that their body is fighting an infection, letting them know that their immune system is working on getting rid of the bacteria or virus that caused the infection.
