A member asked:

I have a swollen lymph node on my under arm, maybe the size of a small grape. i have bad allergies and started my cycle, will that cause the swelling?

6 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Not likely related: Neither your "allergies" or you menses are likely causes of an auxiliary lymph node. Have your pcp assess as to any further evaluation indicated.

Answered 8/18/2013

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Dr. Michael Miller answered

Specializes in Wound care

Monitoring Centers: Lymphatic system absorbs/carries things too big to go into the arteries/veins like bacteria eaten by white cells and digested food. Lymph nodes "taste" the lymph for anything bad like bacteria/viruses/cancers, etc. When it detects a problem, it alerts the immune system and your body reacts. They enlarge in response to the inflammation they create when they react. They shrink when all is well.

Answered 10/5/2013

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