Armpit pain

I have been wanting to know for quite some time about the pain I get under my arm.  I am 41 years old and have been getting a "charlie horse" type cramp in my underarm/arm/breast periodically on the left side for 4-5 years, but more often in the last year. Sometimes they are quite painful, almost paralyzing. The side of my breast seems so sensitive and any little bump or tight stretch can trigger this cramp.  I also have a quarter size rosy spot on the side of my left breast above a small dimple like spot.  I do have sensitivity in that breast quite often, especially around my period, but I also conduct breast self exams and never feel anything out of the ordinary. I just would like to know if this is a normal reaction in the armpit area that everyone gets, or is it something I need to be more concerned about and seek an examination for it? If it is normal, what exactly is it?

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Scooby, Breast pain is a common breast symptom.  The reason for breast pain is not clearly understood, and is not usually associated with breast cancer.  Sometimes it is associated with hormonal variations and is called cyclical breast pain.  A history and physical exam will be important to thoroughly evaluate the pain.  If you have not had a recent physical exam (within the past year), you