Painful bumps under armpit appearing frequently - #8295

Your symptoms of painful bumps under the armpit that are deep under the skin, sometimes filled with pus, and the occurrence of new lesions suggest a condition that indeed could be consistent with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) or possibly a bacterial skin infection. The characteristics you've described, including the prolonged healing time, development of dark marks, and aggravation by sweating and tight clothing, support this concern. Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic condition that leads to painful nodules and abscesses primarily in areas where skin rubs together, like the armpits. This condition is often exacerbated by factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, or obesity. Bacterial infections can also occur and might be triggered by the bumps themselves or from secondary infection of lesions. Given your experience with bumps worsening with sweating and tight clothing, you might consider a few key steps: 1. Avoid Irritation: Opt for looser-fitting clothing, especially when exercising or during hot weather, to reduce friction and sweating in the area. 2. Hygiene Practices: While using antibacterial soaps might help in some cases, it’s essential to be gentle as harsher soaps can irritate the skin further. You might consider mild soaps that will cleanse without stripping natural oils. 3. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help as they are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce the severity of conditions like HS. Apply these to the affected areas following the manufacturer's guidelines, usually once or twice daily, and increase gradually if tolerated. 4. Warm Compresses: Applying a warm, moist compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day can help relieve pain and may assist in draining any pus-filled bumps. 5. Monitor for Infection: If you notice increased redness, warmth, swelling, or if the pus becomes foul-smelling, you should seek healthcare advice, as these could be signs of a bacterial infection requiring intervention. Regarding your question about hormonal changes, fluctuations in hormones could potentially contribute to flare-ups. If you suspect this might be influencing your symptoms, it's important to discuss this with your healthcare provider. Since your condition has been persistent and troublesome, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist for a comprehensive evaluation. A healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis through physical examination and possibly recommend prescription treatments, which may include topical antibiotics, systemic medications, or alternative therapies like cortisosteroid injections, depending on the severity and persistence of the condition. In summary, while some self-care measures can provide relief, an in-person evaluation would be beneficial in addressing the underlying cause accurately and establishing an effective long-term management plan.