Pain Under the Arm? It Might Be More Serious Than You Think

Have you ever noticed a painful lump under your arm that looks red, swollen, and filled with pus? It might seem like a simple pimple or ingrown hair, but it could be something more serious called Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) or a skin abscess.

Let’s break it down in simple words so you know what’s going on and when to get help.

What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a long-term skin condition that causes small, painful lumps under the skin. These lumps usually appear in areas where skin rubs together—like the armpits, groin, buttocks, and under the breasts.

At first, the bumps may look like regular pimples or boils. But over time, they can grow, become painful, fill with pus, and even burst. In some cases, they leave behind deep scars or tunnels under the skin.

What Causes It?

Doctors aren’t 100% sure what causes HS, but a few things are known to trigger it:

• Blocked hair follicles

• Overactive sweat glands

• Hormonal changes

• Obesity

• Smoking

• Family history

It’s not caused by poor hygiene, so don’t blame yourself if you have it. Even people who shower daily can get HS.

Common Symptoms

Here’s what to look out for:

• Painful red bumps or boils in your armpits or groin

• Lumps that leak foul-smelling fluid

• Blackheads around the bumps

• Skin tunnels forming under the surface

• Scars or dark marks from previous bumps

If these keep coming back in the same spot, that’s a big sign it could be HS.

Is It Dangerous?

HS is not life-threatening, but it can be very painful and emotionally draining. It can affect your confidence, cause embarrassment, and even make it hard to move comfortably.

In the worst cases, open wounds or long-lasting abscesses can lead to infections that need medical treatment.

Other Possibility: Skin Abscess

If it’s a one-time swollen lump filled with pus, it might just be a skin abscess or boil. This is often caused by bacteria entering a hair follicle or small break in the skin. It can look scary, feel tender, and even grow big—but with proper care, it usually heals well.

Treatment Options

Good news: there is help available.

For Hidradenitis Suppurativa:

• Antibiotics (oral or topical)

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Steroid injections

• Laser or surgical treatment

• Hormonal therapy for some women

For Skin Abscesses:

• Warm compress to reduce swelling

• Drainage by a doctor (never try popping it at home!)

• Antibiotics if infected

Always talk to a dermatologist (skin doctor) to figure out the right treatment for you.

How to Prevent Future Flare-ups

Here are some easy tips to manage your skin:

• Wear loose, breathable clothes

• Avoid shaving affected areas—use trimming or hair removal cream carefully

• Wash gently with antibacterial soap

• Stay at a healthy weight

• Quit smoking, if you do

• Avoid tight or synthetic fabrics

When Should You See a Doctor?

👉 If the lump is very painful, keeps coming back, leaks pus, or doesn’t heal in a few days—it’s time to see a doctor.
👉 Don’t wait too long, especially if the area is turning green, black, or smells bad. That could mean infection.

In Conclusion

Skin problems like the one in the photo may seem small at first, but they can get worse without proper care. Whether it’s Hidradenitis Suppurativa or a severe abscess, early treatment can make a big difference.

If you’re dealing with this, you’re not alone—and there’s no shame in getting help. Health is health. So don’t hide it. Treat it, heal it, and feel better.