Sharp Pain Under Right Armpit Near Breast When Inhaling: Common Causes and Effective Treatments
Experiencing sharp pain under the right armpit near the breast when taking a deep breath can be alarming. While it may not always indicate a serious condition, this symptom should never be ignored. Several underlying health issues could be responsible, ranging from minor muscle strain to more complex medical conditions. Seeking prompt medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
1. Localized Trauma or Musculoskeletal Injury
Muscle strains, rib injuries, or even fractures in the chest wall can lead to localized pain under the right armpit that worsens during inhalation. The act of breathing causes the chest to expand, which can aggravate injured muscles or fractured ribs, resulting in increased discomfort. Individuals who have experienced recent physical trauma, heavy lifting, or intense exercise may be more susceptible.
A CT scan is typically recommended to assess the extent of the injury. Mild cases often resolve with rest, ice application, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, severe rib fractures may require surgical intervention, especially if they compromise lung function or cause complications such as punctured organs.
2. Pleural Adhesions and Respiratory Complications
Pleural adhesions—scar tissue that forms between layers of the pleura (the lining around the lungs)—can restrict normal lung movement. When these adhesions are present on the right side, they may cause pain under the armpit near the breast during deep breaths. Often, the discomfort is mild and only noticeable during forceful inhalation or physical exertion.
In most cases, asymptomatic adhesions don't require treatment. However, if they stem from an underlying infection like pleuritis (inflammation of the pleura), antibiotics such as ceftriaxone or amoxicillin injections may be prescribed. More severe complications like pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or pleural effusion (fluid buildup) might necessitate a chest tube procedure known as closed thoracostomy to restore normal lung function.
3. Pulmonary Infections and Inflammation
Inflammation in the middle lobe of the right lung—commonly due to pneumonia or bronchitis—can radiate pain to the surrounding areas, including beneath the armpit. This type of pain tends to intensify with breathing because inflamed lung tissue becomes sensitive to expansion during respiration.
Treatment usually involves broad-spectrum antibiotics like ertapenem for injection, particularly in moderate to severe bacterial infections. If a viral infection is suspected, antiviral medications such as ribavirin tablets may be used under medical supervision. Early diagnosis through imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans improves recovery outcomes significantly.
4. Hormonal and Breast-Related Conditions: Fibrocystic Changes
Fibrocystic breast changes, often referred to as breast hyperplasia, affect many women due to hormonal fluctuations, especially during menstruation. These changes can cause breast tenderness, swelling, and pain that may extend into the underarm area. The discomfort frequently increases when inhaling deeply due to heightened sensitivity in the surrounding tissues.
Over-the-counter supplements and prescription medications like Ruan'An tablets or Lubixiao capsules can help manage symptoms by regulating hormone levels and reducing inflammation. If the condition progresses to mastitis—an infection commonly seen in breastfeeding women—treatment with intravenous ceftriaxone may be necessary to control bacterial growth and prevent abscess formation.
5. Intercostal Neuralgia: Nerve-Related Chest Pain
The intercostal nerves run between the ribs and can become irritated due to various factors, including viral infections (such as shingles), chronic inflammation, or direct muscle pressure. When affected, individuals may feel sharp, shooting pain under the right armpit that flares up with each breath.
If caused by the varicella-zoster virus (shingles), early antiviral therapy using acyclovir is essential to shorten the duration and severity of symptoms. For neuralgia triggered by muscular tension or repetitive strain, treatments such as local corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks can provide significant relief.
6. Tumors and Abnormal Growths
Although less common, tumors in the axillary region—including lymphomas, lipomas, or fibromas—can press against surrounding nerves and tissues, causing pain during inhalation. Since the chest expands with each breath, any mass in this area may become more symptomatic when the body moves air in and out of the lungs.
Diagnostic tools such as ultrasound, MRI, or biopsy are vital for determining the nature of the growth. Benign tumors may only require monitoring unless they grow large enough to cause discomfort. Malignant tumors, however, typically demand aggressive treatment, including surgical removal, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the stage and type of cancer.
Regardless of the suspected cause, persistent or worsening pain under the right armpit near the breast when breathing should prompt immediate consultation with a healthcare provider. Early detection and tailored treatment plans improve prognosis and reduce the risk of complications. Always rely on professional medical advice rather than self-diagnosis, especially when dealing with chest-related symptoms.