Swollen Lymph Nodes in Armpits

[ksburnett]

For the last two months, I've had fairly serious swelling of the lymph nodes in both armpits. I don't have any signs of infection or illness (no swollen tonsils or any other lymph nodes). I have had headaches, but I've had them often for a long time. I have three lymph nodes (2 in right, 1 in left) that I can actually feel, and they feel fairly rubbery. They do seem to be worse than before although it's a little difficult to tell.

I'm just wondering if anyone has any idea what it might be? I've been trying to look for reasons online, but nothing seems to make sense. I'm terribly afraid it might be something like cancer (I have no injuries or signs of infection). My family has a terrible history. My grandmother died at 67 (lymphoma, breast cancer and brain cancer). My mother had a double mastectomy because she was pre-cancerous, and my grandfather on the other side died from lymphoma at 72, I believe.

The other complication is that I finally started a subscription for Adderall (20 mg per day) about two weeks ago (a month after the swelling started), so I haven't been eating much. I've lost about six pounds, and I am tired, but I'm not sure how much is caused by the Adderall, or if something could possibly be masked.

Any information would be seriously appreciated. I have a doctor's appointment on Thursday, but I'm feeling anxious. Thank you.

[jemma116]

Try not to stress too much (easier said than done, I know).  Stress will only make you feel worse.

Hope all goes well for you.

Best wishes.

[ksburnett]

Thank you for your advice.  Luckily, I had already had a scheduled appointment as a check-in, so I plan to talk to her about it.  I will mention what you suggested.  As of now, I'm just a little stressed not knowing exactly what it is, I guess.

[jemma116]

Make an urgent appointment to see your doctor.

Make a list of all your symptoms and give this to the doctor and if he does not instigate it, ask if you can have a blood test taken to rule out non-Hodgkins and Hodgkins lymphoma.  If caught early it can be treated successfully.  But you do need to get have a thorough investigation for the correct diagnosis and given the appropriate treatement.

Make sure that you tell the doctor that there is history of cancer in your family.

Let me know how you get on.

Wishing you all the best.