Lymph Nodes

[tonya_n_ky]

I've posted about this before but going to again because it's happening once again...my axillary lymph nodes are swollen, red, warm to the touch and OUCH! I was just wondering if anyone else has this problem. I've asked my family dr about it and he tells me to use a different razor for my legs than I do my underarms (and I do) , he's told me to rub hydrocortisone under my arms, not use deodorant (NO WAY..lol) But it seems to go away and then comes back again. I know it's a sign of infection but I feel ok. It worries me though because I'm not sure why it keeps happening. So if anyone else has this prob..help! I'm on Imuran and I can't really remember if it was happening before then or not. Although I think the imuran is causing me to have a lot more joint pain, especially in my knuckles. Can't hardly use my forefinger's anymore. Anyways, any help and I'd be grateful. Thanks A big Crohnnie hug to all...have a good night .

 

[Kev]

Hi Tonya.. No, I've not had this problem. I wasn't on Imuran long enuff to notice any long term issues, and I dont' shave under my arms (being male has some privileges).

Couple of thoughts... There is a difference between deoderant Vs Anti persperant.. The latter typically uses some form of aluminum salts to irritate the sweat glands so you don't perspire. If I had this problem, I'd stay clear of anything that irritated the area.. The debate over aluminum salts used in anti-perspirents goes on and on. I don't know if anyone will have a 'right' answer on this ever. You just might want to tred on the 'better safe than sorry' path on this one. something else you may want to consider is whether to 'shave' your pits or not. I'm not suggesting the natural look... think Western esthetics pretty much ingrained at this point.. but rather than using a blade that might irritate the area, perhaps an electric razor or trimmer... it won't shave as close, but it might do a good enuff job without risking razor nicks or irritation, which may be the avenue that whatever is causing the lymph node irritation in the first place takes.

Anyway, whatever you decide, keep on top of this. The lymphatic system is just so important that one simply must not turn a blind eye to any swelling you find there.

 

[killerzoey]

I just read about this in "Digestive Wellness" last night as a possible sign of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Any chance you're in that category as well? I know there are many, many causes of swollen lymph nodes and without knowing much about your situation it seems like your doctor is dismissing this concerning symptom rather out-of-hand.