You probably don’t give much thought to your armpits. But did you know they can reveal a lot about your health? Your underarms contain lymph nodes, sweat glands, and nerve endings, which means any unusual changes could point to underlying health concerns.

If you notice any of these warning signs in your armpits, it might be time to take a closer look at your health.

1) Unexplained Lumps

A small lump in your armpit could be a swollen lymph node, which is your body’s way of fighting off infections. But if the lump is large, painful, or doesn’t go away after a few weeks, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as lymphoma or breast cancer.

You should also pay attention to the texture. Hard, immovable lumps might need further medical evaluation.

2) Excessive Sweating for No Reason

Sweating is normal, especially during exercise or in hot weather. But if your armpits are drenched even when you’re at rest, you might have a condition called hyperhidrosis.

Sometimes, excessive sweating can be linked to thyroid problems, diabetes, or nervous system disorders. If deodorants and antiperspirants don’t help, you may want to get checked out.

3) Skin Discoloration

Have you noticed dark patches forming under your arms? This could be acanthosis nigricans, a condition linked to insulin resistance, obesity, or even diabetes.

In some cases, scientists believe hormonal imbalances or certain medications can also cause darkening of the skin. If your armpits look darker than usual and the discoloration doesn’t fade, it might be worth getting your blood sugar levels checked.

4) Persistent Odor That Won’t Go Away

Armpit odor is normal, but if it smells different or stronger than usual, even after showering, it could mean an underlying issue.

A strong, musty odor might be linked to metabolic disorders, while a fruity smell could indicate diabetes. If you notice a sudden change in body odor that won’t go away, consider speaking to a doctor.

5) Rash or Itchy Skin

A red, bumpy, or itchy rash under your arms could be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, especially if the area stays moist. Conditions like eczema, contact dermatitis, or even heat rash can also lead to irritation.

If the rash doesn’t clear up with over-the-counter treatments or gets worse, it could signal an allergy or a more serious skin condition.

6) Pain or Tenderness

Sore armpits can happen after shaving or using harsh deodorants, but if the pain is deep, persistent, or occurs with swelling, you might be dealing with an infection or swollen lymph nodes.

In some cases, pain in the armpits could be a sign of nerve damage, heart problems, or even a warning sign of a heart attack in women.

7) Unusual Growths or Boils

Painful bumps under the skin could be hidradenitis suppurativa, a painful, long-term skin condition that causes painful lumps and abscesses. It happens when hair follicles become blocked and inflamed.

These growths can be stubborn and might require medical treatment. If they keep coming back, it’s best to see a doctor.

8) Tingling or Numbness

If you ever experience numbness or tingling in your armpits, it might be linked to nerve compression. This could be due to poor posture, an injury, or even conditions like diabetic neuropathy.

If tingling persists or spreads to your arms, it might be worth checking for nerve-related disorders.

9) Swelling Without a Clear Cause

If one or both armpits appear swollen without an obvious reason, this could point to an infection, an allergic reaction, or an issue with your lymphatic system.

In some cases, swollen lymph nodes in the armpits might be an early sign of a serious illness, like breast cancer or lymphoma. If the swelling doesn’t go down in a few weeks, a doctor’s visit is a good idea.

10) Dry, Peeling, or Cracked Skin

If the skin under your arms is constantly dry, flaky, or peeling, it could be more than just irritation from shaving or deodorant. Persistent dryness may be a sign of eczema, psoriasis, or a fungal infection.

In some cases, extreme dryness could indicate a vitamin deficiency, especially if you’re not getting enough vitamins A, D, or E. If moisturizing doesn’t help and the skin keeps peeling, a dermatologist might be able to identify the cause.

Your armpits might not be the first place you look for health warnings, but they can reveal a lot about your well-being. If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to pay closer attention to what your body is telling you.