Can deodorant cause swollen lymph nodes?
Swollen lymph nodes can be a concerning and uncomfortable issue for many people. While they can be a sign of infection or illness, they can also be caused by other factors, including the use of deodorant, specifically, anti-perspirants.
Swollen lymph nodes caused by deodorant use can occur in the armpit area.
Here are some things to know about swollen lymph nodes due to deodorant use and what do do about them:
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What are lymph nodes and why do they swell?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that are part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and tissues that help to rid the body of waste, toxins, and other harmful substances. Lymph nodes filter lymph fluid, which contains white blood cells that help to fight infection and disease.
When the lymph nodes detect a foreign substance, such as bacteria or a virus, they produce more white blood cells, causing them to swell. This swelling is a sign that your immune system is responding to an infection or other issue in your body.
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What causes swollen lymph nodes due to deodorant usage?
Deodorant can cause an adverse reaction that leads to swollen lymph nodes. The most common type of deodorant that causes this reaction contains aluminum compounds.
When aluminum compounds contained in deodorant are absorbed through your skin, an immune response can be triggered. This response can cause lymph nodes in the armpits to swell and to potentially be painful or uncomfortable.
Best natural deodorants free-from aluminum
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How can you tell if your swollen lymph nodes are due to deodorant usage?
If you notice that your lymph nodes are swollen and you use deodorant, it's possible that the deodorant is the cause.
Signs that your swollen lymph nodes are due to deodorant use include redness or irritation in the armpit area, or a rash that appears after applying deodorant.
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What can you do to prevent swollen lymph nodes due to deodorant usage?
If you're experiencing swollen lymph nodes due to deodorant use, discontinue using the deodorant you are currently using until the swelling clears. Consider switching to a natural deodorant, such as Nala Free-From deodorants which are free-from aluminum, and can help to reduce body odor and sweating without causing an adverse reaction.
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When should you see a doctor for swollen lymph nodes?
If your swollen lymph nodes persist for more than a week or are accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or fatigue, you should see a doctor. Your doctor can perform tests to determine the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and recommend the appropriate treatment.
In conclusion, swollen lymph nodes can occur due to deodorant use and switching to a natural deodorant free-from aluminum may help to reduce the swelling. However, if your swollen lymph nodes persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, you should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan
References:
American Cancer Society. (2021). Swollen lymph nodes. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-basics/swollen-lymph-nodes.html
Harvard Health Publishing. (2018). Aluminum and your health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/aluminum-and-your-health
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Swollen lymph nodes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/swollen-lymph-nodes/symptoms-causes/syc-20353902
National Cancer Institute. (2020). Lymphatic system. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/lymphatic-system
WebMD. (2021). Swollen lymph nodes. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/swollen-lymph-nodes-causes-diagnosis-treatment#1
Comments
Hey Maynard,
I experienced the same when I was using old spice, a couple times it was so bad I had to puncture and drain it myself. I’m currently looking for answers to this problem as well. Im looking at “every man jack” brand but the pain was so excruciating that I just stopped wearing deodorant altogether like 5 years ago, and i’m afraid to try this, even if it’s made up entirely of something else
Hello my beautiful wife of 26 years we were taking a shower together and felt a lump onderneth my armpit and became very nervous I am a Welder by trade and have worn old spice. Any advice would be greatly appreciated thank you kindly