Swollen lymph nodes in armpits

Last year I was referred to a breast cancer clinic after my lymph nodes in one armpit became swollen and sore. Thankfully nothing was detected. Since then, my lymph nodes keep swelling up and going back down, pretty much every month, with no signs of being unwell. So a year later I am being referred again for another ultrasound, this time on both armpits and breasts.

I know this doesn't necessarily mean I have breast cancer but I was wondering if my story has been shared by anyone else who has then gone onto being diagnosed? Both my auntie and grandma died from breast cancer so feel like there is a strong chance both my mum or/and I are going to get it too and I fear I am going to worry for the rest of my life about getting it.

Parents
  • Hi,

    I know it has been a while since you posted but I was just wondering what your outcome was as I have been experiencing similar for around 8 months now. 

  • Hello [@Anxiousbunny78]‍ 

    Fortunately my follow up ultrasound showed nothing cancerous either. Since then I've not really had swollen lymph nodes in either armpit at all. My mum suggested I try stopping using spray in deodorant and use roll on, just to see if it did anything. I've been using roll on since my last scan and had no swollen lymph nodes at all. It could be complete coincidence but it's definitely made a difference for me. 
     

    Also, the doctor suggested I keep a diary of when they appear. I noticed that every month they were appearing right before my period was due. This could mean it was hormone related. But definitely worth doing as it will help you have the right discussions with your doc.

     

    So swollen armpit lymph nodes definitely don't always indicate cancer, like in my case. But definitely worth some speaking to your doctor and having scans if needed. 
     

    Hope that helps even a little bit!

Reply
  • Hello [@Anxiousbunny78]‍ 

    Fortunately my follow up ultrasound showed nothing cancerous either. Since then I've not really had swollen lymph nodes in either armpit at all. My mum suggested I try stopping using spray in deodorant and use roll on, just to see if it did anything. I've been using roll on since my last scan and had no swollen lymph nodes at all. It could be complete coincidence but it's definitely made a difference for me. 
     

    Also, the doctor suggested I keep a diary of when they appear. I noticed that every month they were appearing right before my period was due. This could mean it was hormone related. But definitely worth doing as it will help you have the right discussions with your doc.

     

    So swollen armpit lymph nodes definitely don't always indicate cancer, like in my case. But definitely worth some speaking to your doctor and having scans if needed. 
     

    Hope that helps even a little bit!

Children