What causes itchy, red colored,swollen lymph nodes on the armpit?
Patient: I have had recent swollen lymph nodes in my arm pit monthly the week before and during my menstrual cycle.  My doctor seems to think that this is normal due to the increased bodily fluid and hormone activity.  The swelling is red, and very painful; when my cycle is over, it subsides until the next month.  It generally starts out itching badly and progresses to red and painful.  Is this normal? I'm 5'7", 150#, 43 y/o, basically healthy, I have a great deal of stress at the moment, I'm prone to cysts, foliculitis, and benign tumors. Doctor: Thank you for sharing your query on Healthcaremagic, I have carefully worked through your case and of course is not normal you probably have an Hidradenitis that is an inflammation of sweat glands, as you do not  do the right treatment the process persist( hidden ) and when you have your period is exacerbated with the hormonal changes, I think you need to take antibiotics and some OTC ( anti-inflammatory and pain killers) treatment, another thing I advice you to aply a light deodorant ( no grease ) wash your armpits 2-3 times a day ( you can use wipes) because doing this you are avoiding the obstruction in your glands ducts. I hope that my advice has been helpful, take care