Ask Marilyn – Star Question: Lumps related to stress?
Q: A few months ago I was going through a stressful time and I found a small lump under my armpit. It has since disappeared, but should I be worried?
A: Lumps in the armpit can have various causes so should always be checked out with your doctor. If the lump re-appears then it is important to see your GP.
It is interesting that you associated the lump with going through a stressful time as these two can be connected. So the main aim now is to prevent a recurrence by controlling the stress hormones. Make sure that you are eating little and often, no longer than three hours without eating and avoid caffeine and sugar. If your blood sugar is fluctuating then adrenaline (one of the stress hormones) will be released.
Add in a good multivitamin and mineral supplement for three months (like the BioCare One a Day or MenoPlus if you are over 45) and extra B vitamins as a B complex as these vitamins are known as the ‘stress’ vitamins. Also include extra magnesium as this is Nature’s ‘tranquiliser’ and will help to cushion your body if you go through another stressful period.
The herb Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) could also be very helpful. This herb is classed as an adaptogen, which means that it works according to your body’s need — providing energy when required, and helping to combat stress and fatigue when you are under pressure. It helps the adrenal glands which will have been under extreme pressure if you were stressed. Siberian ginseng is extremely useful when you have been under mental or physical stress and should be taken for around three months.
Aromatherapy oils, such as bergamot, lavender and camomile, can be added to a relaxing warm bath just before going to bed and some women have said that sprinkling the essential of lavender onto the pillow is restful. Oils that support the action of the adrenal glands are geranium and rosemary. Rosemary is also a gentle stimulant, which can help to increase energy levels when you are experiencing stress. Sedative and antidepressant oils that are noted for initiating the relaxation response include bergamot, clary sage, jasmine, marjoram and rose.