I’m in my 30s, and for the past couple of years I’ve been getting painful lumps that come and go in my underarms and groin. They often start as tender nodules that feel deep under the skin, and sometimes they burst and leave marks that take weeks to fade. The discomfort makes me avoid certain clothes, and on bad days the throbbing pain is distracting enough to keep me up at night.
I’m really sorry you’ve been dealing with such painful and recurring nodules. Thank you for the details and the photograph (not shown for privacy). Based on your description, the pattern is most consistent with hidradenitis suppurativa, which often presents with deep, tender nodules in friction-prone areas that may drain or form tunnels. Conditions such as recurrent bacterial folliculitis (which typically causes more superficial pustules), epidermoid cysts (usually isolated, round, and not recurrent in clusters), and acne inversa from mechanical friction (which often flares with repeated rubbing) can appear similar, but the chronic, relapsing course you described fits HS more closely.
How urgently this needs to be managed
This is generally routine to semi-urgent, meaning it’s reasonable to seek dermatologist evaluation within the next few weeks. Earlier review is helpful if the pain is significantly interfering with daily activities or if new draining areas appear.
Seek urgent care if these occur
If any of the following develop, a same-day or next-day medical assessment is recommended:
Rapid swelling with spreading redness
Fever or feeling unwell
Severe, uncontrolled pain
A large area of sudden, warm tenderness suggestive of an abscess
The following self-care and over-the-counter measures may sometimes help
I know this condition can feel frustrating and isolating. Gentle skin care and friction-reducing habits may help ease discomfort during flare periods. Using non-irritating cleansers, loose clothing, and avoiding aggressive shaving are commonly advised educational measures.
If needed, people sometimes try:
Warm compresses to ease tenderness
Gentle antiperspirant use if tolerated
Minimizing friction in high-rub areas
What dermatologists commonly prescribe (educational, specific drug names not mentioned)
Dermatologists may use a combination of topical anti-inflammatory treatments, oral medications to reduce inflammation, and occasionally clinic-based procedures such as targeted injections or laser approaches. The exact choice of treatment depends on a full in-person evaluation and individual medical factors. When diagnosis is uncertain, dermoscopy, bacterial cultures, or a small skin biopsy may be considered.
If the condition does not improve
If symptoms continue to recur or become more painful, a formal dermatology review is usually the next step to reassess severity and consider additional treatment options.
Before you go
You’re not alone in dealing with this, and many people find meaningful improvement with the right support. Feel free to share updates or additional photos if anything changes.
Disclaimer
“This is an anonymised educational example only. It is not medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified dermatologist.”
