Itching under the arms, when is it a sign of cancer?

The skin under your arms is more sensitive than other parts of your body. This is because the skin is thinner and more easily irritated. Irritation, infection, dermatitis, and other skin problems can make your underarms itchy and uncomfortable. In some cases, this itching can also be a sign of cancer.

Everyone feels itchy underarms from time to time. The skin under the arms is very prone to irritation not only because it is thin but also because sweat accumulates easily, according to the health website Healthline (USA).

People should shower after exercising to avoid sweat irritating the skin under the arms.

Signs of some cancers

Persistent armpit itching that won't go away is sometimes a sign of certain cancers, such as inflammatory breast cancer or lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that causes the white blood cells to grow too much. One of the common symptoms of the disease is swollen lymph nodes in the armpits, neck, and groin. These areas may also be itchy. In some cases, itching can occur all over the body.

In addition to swollen lymph nodes and itching, other symptoms of the disease include fever, chills, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and lack of energy.

Experts say there are about 70 types of lymphoma, mainly divided into two groups: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Research shows that among patients with lymphoma, more than 30% are Hodgkin lymphoma and 15% are non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Inflammatory breast cancer, on the other hand, is a rare type of cancer that can cause armpit itching. Many cases of inflammatory breast cancer are initially diagnosed as an infection, and then breast cancer is discovered later. The cause is swelling, redness, pain, and itching of the breast.

Itchy armpits are completely normal. However, if the armpit itching persists, you have tried everything but it still does not go away, and it is accompanied by symptoms of early stage cancer such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and the appearance of unusual lumps, you should see a doctor soon for a check-up.

Itchy armpits are also caused by bacteria and fungi.

In most cases, armpit itching is caused by bacteria and fungi. To prevent these microorganisms from growing, people need to keep the skin under the arms cool and dry, shower immediately after exercise and dry the armpits thoroughly. Clothing materials should be breathable and absorbent, such as cotton. Wearing tank tops or loose T-shirts can help reduce sweating, thereby keeping the skin under the arms dry, according to Healthline.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/ngua-duoi-canh-tay-khi-nao-la-dau-hieu-cua-ung-thu-185241201125714146.htm