I had that several years ago - clogged follicle. Doctor initially thought it would resolve on its own... But after a few days I had it lanced. Extremely painful condition and recovery is long if it doesn't self resolve.

OP here. A lot more swollen and painful today. Will try the salt water. Yikes. :/

I don't think you have to see the derm, especially since it's unlikely you will get in quick, really try the salt water (hot water)

Thanks. I am will probably see a doc on Monday. Should be a dermatologist, right?

I would probably check in with doc just to rule out possibility of infection.

Try soaking with a washcloth dipped in hot saltwater

I had similar symptoms once and it turned out to be a staph infection. Hurt quite a bit but antibiotics took care of it

Thanks all. I use arm and hammer antiperspirant deodorant, which I've used for many years.

I don't think im fighting an infection, but who knows ... I feel fine. Kind of tired. It's been a really stressful week (bad work situation / many interviews). I'm worn down

Also got from an antipersperant. Are you using one or a deodorant without antipersperant?

+1 on the ingrown / clogged follicle. I used to get them in college until I realized it was because I'd switched to Degree Solid antiperspirant. Something about that stuff just clogged my follicles constantly, and the bumps were incredibly painful. I switched to Lady Mitchum, and while it isn't as effective...no bumps!

Are you sure it's not a lymph node that's swollen and tender because you're fighting off some infection? I've had that a few times before.

Mine went away in about a week, I think. The doctor didn't do anything to it.

Thanks Pp. That's probably what it is, I'm just shocked I can feel the pain so deep. I was feeling around and it's definitely a lump. Did yours go away with time? Or did they have to assist in getting rid of it ?

I had this once, and when I went to the doctor, it turned out to be an ingrown hair. My doc rec'd using men's triple blade razors because apparently they "work better" than women's razors, and the closer shave helps prevent this sort of thing.

She was right about using men's razors, and now I also use them on my legs. (and never got the underarm lump again, either).

I just woke up with a spot that feels incredibly sore under my armpit. There is a small bump which almost feels like it could be an ingrown hair but the area is VERY tender and when I touch it, i feel the pain deeply ... It is sore even moving my arm around.

I am so annoyed because I was at the doctor for blood work yesterday and now this pops up. It's probably nothing , right?