Does Pain Under Left Armpit Mean You Are Having A Heart Attack?

April 15, 2023
5 min read

Have you ever thought about what could be causing a sudden pain under your left armpit? Even if it might only be a moment of discomfort, paying attention to any severe or prolonged soreness is crucial.Numerous vital organs, including lymph nodes, nerves, blood arteries, and muscles, run through the armpit location. Let's look at a few reasons for pain beneath the left armpit in this post, and solve the puzzle of this frequent yet potentially alarming ache.

What Causes Pain Under Left Armpit?

Here are the top 3 contributors to armpit discomfort:

  • infection
  • swollen lymph nodes
  • strained muscle

Infection

Underarm pits that are dark and occasionally wet are perfect homes for bacteria. Right or left armpit pain can sometimes result from overgrowth or infection caused by this bacteria known as trichomycosis axillaries. Small, 1-2 millimeter red, yellow, or black lumps are produced around the armpit hair and are more common in warmer areas.Also, hidradenitis suppurativa, a skin disorder can cause abscesses that can lead to infection. Boil-like lumps, cysts, and blackheads are a few symptoms. An armpit abscess develops when pus builds up in an uncomfortable, bloated lump that may leak.Candida infections like candidiasis, which commonly develop in skin creases and might hurt beneath the arms, are caused by fungi.

Swollen lymph nodes

Infections involving viruses can hurt under your left armpit. When you get sick, your body may respond by producing additional blood cells to help fight the infection. As a result, your lymph nodes enlarge or swell up, causing pain.Moreover, lymph nodes in the neck, chest, groin, and belly can swell. Swollen lymph nodes can occasionally indicate malignancies like lymphoma and leukemia.

Strained muscle

Your muscle tissues are susceptible to damage since you use your arms for so many daily activities. A muscular strain happens when it is overstretched or torn.If you lift anything too heavy or move quickly, you could strain your muscles. Repetitive pressure on a muscle might also result in weakened muscles beneath your armpits. A pulled muscle can hurt like it's being stabbed.

Does Pain Under Left Armpit Mean You Are Having A Heart Attack?

No, pain beneath the left armpit does not always indicate a heart attack. Since the heart is in the center of the chest, pain under the left armpit is more likely the result of external causes. These could include strained muscles, accidents, infections, or even problems with the breasts, like mastitis or breast cancer.The best course of action is to see a doctor identify the underlying source of soreness under your left armpit. A medical expert can conduct an examination, request testing, and offer a diagnosis and suitable course of action.

How To Deal With Armpit Pain?

There are a few things you can do to help alleviate the pain.

  • Applying a warm compress or a warm bath may help relax the muscles and relieve discomfort.
  • Over-the-counter meds such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Avoiding activities or movements that exacerbate the pain, such as lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous exercise, is important.
  • Resting the affected area and avoiding unnecessary movement can help to promote healing.

Closing Note

If you feel pain radiating from your armpits to your chest, talk to a cardiologist immediately for action. You can rely on Northwest Cardiovascular for dealing with anything related to your discomfort around the heart. Dial (281) 807-5253. Our line is on for 24/7 assistance.

Take the next step towards a healthy heart

Request an appointment by clicking the button below or call our office staff at (281) 807-5253

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