Armpit lump: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, confusion, collapse, or blue, grey, or unusually pale skin.

   These are signs of serious illness.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Arrange a same-day medical assessment if the lump rapidly becomes more painful, red, hot, or swollen, especially with fever or feeling very unwell.

   This may indicate an abscess or spreading skin infection.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Book a routine appointment if:

   • The lump remains after two to four weeks
   • It is growing, hard, or difficult to move
   • It keeps returning or repeatedly drains
   • You have unexplained night sweats, weight loss, or ongoing fever
   • You notice a breast or chest lump, skin dimpling, or nipple changes
   • You have had cancer or have a weakened immune system

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • has noticed a lump, a mole that has changed, or unexplained weight loss
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Armpit lump. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.