My nephew has a red swollen and very tender area underneath his upper arm. There is no visible bite or injury to the area, but now has a red line running up the arm from the swollen area. This has been present for about five days with more swelling and redness each day. He has refused to seek medical attention and I feel he should have already done so. I would appreciate any advice you could offer. Thank you in advance for any assistance you can offer. Sincerely, Sheila T.

Red streaking is usually an indication of a serious infection. If the problem is not take care of medically it can result in loss of the limb or death. The infection will just keep spreading into the bloodstream if not treated. Urge him to go to the hospital and get it taken care of. A week on antiobiotics and he will be fine, if you can get him to go.