[50F] Experiencing shoulder pain, armpit swelling, and night sweats

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Tear: This condition is characterized by inflammation or tears in the tendons of the shoulder's rotator cuff. This could explain your shoulder pain, especially with lifting, and the feeling of looseness.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and possibly corticosteroid injections or surgery in severe cases.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand, due to pressure on the median nerve in your wrist. This could explain the tingling in your hands when you sleep.

  • Treatment can include wrist splinting, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and surgery.

• Lymphadenopathy: This refers to enlarged lymph nodes, which could explain the swelling in your armpit. There are many potential causes, including infection, autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancer.

  • Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

• Night Sweats: These can be caused by many different things, including menopause, infections, certain medications, and some types of cancer. Given your history of hypothyroidism, it's also possible that your night sweats are related to hormonal imbalances.

  • Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

What you can do

1. Rest your shoulder and avoid activities that worsen your pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help.
2. Try wearing a wrist splint at night to help with the tingling in your hands.
3. Keep track of when you experience night sweats and any potential triggers, such as certain foods or activities.
4. Monitor the swelling in your armpit. If it continues or worsens, seek medical attention.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain or swelling in your shoulder or armpit
• Sudden weakness or numbness in your arm or hand
• Unexplained weight loss or fever
• Persistent or worsening night sweats

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.