Experiencing pus discharge from the armpit can be a concerning symptom. This often indicates an underlying issue within the skin or glands of the armpit area. Understanding the potential reasons, accompanying symptoms, and appropriate next steps can provide clarity. This article offers information regarding possible causes and when to consider professional medical evaluation, emphasizing that this content does not replace personalized medical advice from a healthcare provider.
Common Reasons for Armpit Pus
Pus discharge from the armpit frequently stems from localized infections or inflammatory conditions within the skin. A common cause is an abscess, a collection of pus often from bacterial infection. These infections can arise when bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, enter through a break in the skin or block a sweat gland or hair follicle, leading to inflammation and accumulation of immune cells and dead tissue.
Another condition associated with recurring pus discharge is Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin disease. HS typically manifests as painful, deep-seated lumps, blackheads, and tunnels, known as sinus tracts, which can rupture and release pus. This condition primarily affects areas where skin rubs together and where apocrine sweat glands are present, including the armpits, and is not linked to poor hygiene.
Folliculitis, an inflammation of hair follicles, can also result in small, pus-filled bumps that may rupture. This condition often develops when hair follicles become damaged or blocked, allowing bacteria, yeasts, or fungi to infect them. While usually minor, severe cases can lead to deeper infections and more noticeable pus.
Epidermal or sebaceous cysts are benign sacs filled with dead skin cells or oily matter. They can sometimes become infected. When inflamed and infected, these cysts may rupture, releasing their contents, which can include pus and a foul odor. These cysts can occur anywhere on the body, including the armpit, and may recur if the sac lining is not fully removed.
Accompanying Symptoms and When to Seek Care
The presence of pus from the armpit is often accompanied by other symptoms indicating the underlying issue. Individuals might experience localized pain, tenderness, redness, and warmth around the affected area. Swelling is also common, as the body’s immune response causes fluid and inflammatory cells to accumulate.
Systemic symptoms can also develop, signaling a more widespread infection or inflammatory process. These may include a fever, chills, or fatigue. The development of new lumps or interconnected tunnels, particularly in cases of chronic conditions like Hidradenitis Suppurativa, warrants attention.
Seeking professional medical evaluation becomes important in several scenarios. If the pus discharge is persistent, worsens over time, or recurs frequently, it warrants medical assessment. Increasing pain, spreading redness, or swelling that does not subside should prompt a doctor’s visit.
The presence of a fever or chills alongside the armpit discharge suggests a systemic infection that requires prompt treatment. If the affected area becomes significantly larger, very hot to the touch, or extremely tender, it indicates a potentially serious infection. Red streaks spreading away from the armpit area can signal a spreading infection, such as cellulitis, which needs immediate medical attention. Individuals with compromised immune systems or pre-existing health conditions should seek care quickly if they notice pus discharge.
Professional Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
When evaluating pus discharge from the armpit, a healthcare professional typically begins with a thorough physical examination of the affected area. They will assess the size, tenderness, and characteristics of any lumps or lesions, and note the presence and nature of the pus. A detailed review of the patient’s medical history, including any recurring skin issues or systemic conditions, helps inform the diagnostic process.
To identify the specific microbe causing an infection, a swab of the pus may be collected for a bacterial culture. This laboratory test helps determine the type of bacteria present and its susceptibility to various antibiotics, guiding treatment decisions. Imaging studies like ultrasound might be used to visualize deeper collections of pus or the extent of sinus tracts.
Treatment approaches vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. For localized collections of pus, such as abscesses, an incision and drainage procedure may be performed to release the accumulated fluid. This procedure helps alleviate pain and promotes healing by removing the source of infection.
Bacterial infections are often managed with antibiotics, which may be prescribed orally or applied topically to the skin. Anti-inflammatory medications can be recommended to help reduce pain and swelling associated with the inflammation.
General recommendations often include applying warm compresses to the area to promote comfort and encourage drainage. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding irritants and tight clothing in the armpit area can also support healing.
For chronic conditions like Hidradenitis Suppurativa, management involves long-term strategies, which might include specific medications, laser therapy, or surgical interventions to manage recurrent lesions and tunnels. Depending on the diagnosis and complexity, a doctor might refer a patient to a dermatologist for skin conditions or a surgeon for procedures.