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I found a hard, painless lump in my armpit

thisisscaryicl
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Hi, I'm 17 years old, and I've recently found a lump in my armpit. I've had a few before which were just pimples that were forming, but this feels a bit stranger than normal. I am female, and I am on birth control (combined pill), so I am very weary about it being a cancer. It is quite under the skin and doesn't really even reach the surface when I lift my armpit to stretch the skin, and neither is it noticeable - I only realised it was there when I felt my armpit. I'm not sure if it's irregular in shape because of where it's located. I am also unaware of when this appeared. Should I be worried? I really am, but I think my GP is just going to brush it off regardless of if it is cancer. Does anyone have any advice on what to do? Just for context, I have been feeling extremely fatigued but I was prescribed vitamin D, and I do have irregular bowel movement, but this has been going on for quite a while.

  • Welcome to the forum Thisisscaryicl although I'm sorry to hear about the lump you've found and for the worry this is causing.

    Hopefully some of our members will be along soon to offer their thoughts and advice but in the meantime, do make sure you book an appointment with your GP as they will be able to examine you and let you know if this is any cause for concern.

    Hopefully that won't be the case but it's always good to get any unusual or persistent symptoms checked out, if only for peace of mind. 

    We're thinking of you Thisisscaryicl and will have our fingers crossed everything will be o.k.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Hi Thisiscaryicl,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    I am sorry to hear about your symptoms, but appreciate your anxiety about this. It would be unusual for someone of your age to receive a cancer diagnosis, but sadly, not impossible. Younger people  often have difficulty in persuading their GP that they need to be tested and not dismissed, solely on the basis of age. We are always told not to ignore any changes and to see a GP if we have any concerns, so, that is precisely what you should do. If you are concerned about your GP brushing aside your worries, it might help to take your mum along with you for moral support.

    Try not to panic. Of all the people referred to the breast clinic, only 20% will get a cancer diagnosis. The other 80% can turn out to be benign cysts, fibrous changes, naturally lumpy breasts, etc.

    I sincerely hope that all turns out well and that nothing abnormal is detected. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

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