A sudden pain, swelling, or lump in the underarm may seem harmless — something caused by infection, shaving, or muscle strain. However, for some women, an underarm lump is not just a minor issue; it can be an early sign of breast cancer.
As a practicing oncologist in Nagpur, Dr. Sameeksha Dubey encounters several women who visit late, assuming that underarm pain will resolve on its own. This delay often allows breast cancer to progress quietly. Understanding the connection between the armpit and breast tissue can help detect disease at a stage when it is fully curable.
Why underarm changes matter
The underarm (axilla) contains lymph nodes that act as filters for infection and abnormal cells from the breast and surrounding areas. When breast cancer cells begin to spread, they frequently travel to these nodes first. Hence, an underarm lump may sometimes appear before a visible lump forms in the breast.
An underarm lump can therefore serve as a sentinel warning — one of the most crucial but often overlooked early signs of breast cancer causing lymph node enlargement.
How to identify concerning signs
Not every lump or swelling under the arm means cancer. But certain characteristics need medical attention:
- Hard and fixed lump: unlike soft, movable infections, cancerous nodes feel firm and attached to deeper tissue.
- Painless swelling: infections usually hurt; cancerous lumps often do not.
- Persistent size increase: if a lump remains for more than two weeks or grows, it warrants testing.
- Associated breast symptoms: thickening, dimpling, nipple discharge, or changes in breast shape strengthen suspicion.
If these symptoms appear, do not self-medicate or massage the area — see an oncologist immediately.
Diagnostic approach: confirming the cause
At Samsara Cancer Care, Nagpur, Dr. Sameeksha Dubey follows a structured approach called the Triple Test — a gold standard in breast cancer diagnosis:
- Clinical Breast Examination (CBE): to assess the nature of the lump.
- Imaging (Mammography or Ultrasound): to visualize structure and location.
- Biopsy (FNAC or Core Needle): to confirm whether the cells are benign or malignant.
When all three components point toward malignancy, diagnosis accuracy exceeds 99 percent.
Why early detection matters
Breast cancer detected at Stage 1 or 2 is completely curable in over 90 percent of women with proper treatment. Underarm swelling may be the first clue to such early detection.
Ignoring an underarm lump because it seems small or painless allows potential cancer cells to spread to deeper lymph nodes, bones, or lungs — turning a curable condition into a challenging one.
What might be “breast cancer causing” in this context
Factors such as hormonal imbalance, long-term exposure to plastics and chemicals, obesity, early puberty, or late menopause can alter breast tissue behavior. These are part of the growing discussion on what may be breast cancer causing in Indian women. Regular check-ups and awareness of subtle body changes play a major preventive role.
Dr. Sameeksha Dubey stresses that early consultation is not just about treatment; it’s about reassurance. In many cases, lumps are non-cancerous, and timely evaluation prevents unnecessary anxiety.
Practical steps every woman should take
- Perform a monthly self-examination, especially after menstruation.
- Visit a specialist once a year for a clinical breast exam.
- Maintain a healthy weight and avoid smoking or alcohol.
- Report any underarm or breast change immediately instead of waiting for it to subside.
Where to seek help
For women across Nagpur and Maharashtra, Samsara Cancer Care provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment facilities under one roof. From advanced imaging to targeted therapy and counselling, the centre’s approach is personalized, evidence-based, and compassionate.
Dr. Sameeksha Dubey, Central India’s only female Medical Oncologist, leads the program focused on early breast cancer detection and prevention. Her expertise ensures that each patient receives accurate guidance and prompt care — the two most powerful weapons against cancer.
Final note
A lump in the underarm should never be ignored. While not every swelling is malignant, it is vital to rule out serious causes early. Early detection means easier treatment, fewer complications, and a higher chance of complete recovery.
If you have noticed underarm pain, swelling, or a lump, book a consultation today at Samsara Cancer Care, Nagpur for an expert evaluation by Dr. Sameeksha Dubey.
Because awareness and timely action can transform what might be breast cancer causing fear into a story of confident recovery.