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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Armpit pain
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Armpit pain
by Scooby, May 01, 2001 12:00AM
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?
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-JS, May 01, 2001 12:00AM
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’re due.
Current guidelines for breast cancer detection from the National Cancer Institute recommend three-point plan: 1) Monthly breast self-examination. 2) Women should have breast examinations during their routine checkups, and women 40 years old and older should have them annually. 3) beginning at age 40, all women should have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years until age 50. After 50, mammography should be done annually.
Current guidelines for breast cancer detection from the National Cancer Institute recommend three-point plan: 1) Monthly breast self-examination. 2) Women should have breast examinations during their routine checkups, and women 40 years old and older should have them annually. 3) beginning at age 40, all women should have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years until age 50. After 50, mammography should be done annually.
