I have a painful, tender, and inflamed lump in my armpit. What medicine or ointment should I use to treat it?
A painful, inflamed armpit lump is often a boil, blocked sweat gland, or swollen lymph node. Avoid squeezing or popping it, as this can spread infection. For relief, apply a warm compress for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times daily, and take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. You can apply a topical antibiotic ointment (such as Bacitracin), but this will not reach deep infections. Because armpit lumps require proper evaluation, please see a doctor. You may need prescription oral antibiotics or a minor drainage procedure. Seek immediate care if you develop a fever or if the redness spreads rapidly.