lymphedema

elferdin
elferdin Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I'm almost two years post treatment (bi-lateral masectomy, chemo, radiation) and have just discovered slight swelling in my arm where my lymph glands were removed. With a "lymphedema clinic" screening two weeks away, I'm looking for some wisdom on living with this condition.

Comments

  • ksfc
    ksfc Member Posts: 251
    #2
    I've been living with lymphadema since shortly after my node dissection because of the staph infection that followed. There are varying degrees from mild to severe. It's important that you find a physical therapist who is trained in lymphadema management. They can teach you massage, exercises, how to bandage your arm, fit you for a sleeve. There are also many things you need to do to protect that arm including no lifting over 15 lbs. (although my therapist prefers a 5-7 lb. limit),no needle sticks or blood pressures in that arm, no scrubbing or back and forth motion, no really hot water or sauna, no cuts, scrapes or scratches, keeping the skin moisturized. There's a lot more. One of the best websites out there is www.lymphnet.org.
    Good luck! If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me. Diane
  • isaiah4031
    isaiah4031 Member Posts: 240
    #3
    My doc told me to make sure I didn't carry a purse or bag over the affected shoulder. And I agree with Diane...make sure you see a PT and get some exercises. My mom did that...lots of crawling up the wall with her fingers!! Massages and wraps...
    Love, Jayne
  • Tori
    Tori Member Posts: 6
    #4
    I have been dealing with this since my reconstruction surgery. I knew that I had a risk of developing it and took every precaution. A nurse in the recovery room inserted and IV even though it was clearly posted not too. I stayed in the hospital for 13 days with fluid into my arm through the IV. I have found a clinic with therapists to be the best thing. Besides helping my arm it is a nice massage for and hour. Depending on the severity the visits can be up to 3 times a week and then slowly lowered. Your insurance should pay for this. Just remember, baby that arm. No IV,BP,INJ ever in this arm. The sleeves I have plenty of, fashion statement not but they due have alot of colors to chose from. Good Luck Girl!
  • ksfc
    ksfc Member Posts: 251
    #5
    Tori said:

    I have been dealing with this since my reconstruction surgery. I knew that I had a risk of developing it and took every precaution. A nurse in the recovery room inserted and IV even though it was clearly posted not too. I stayed in the hospital for 13 days with fluid into my arm through the IV. I have found a clinic with therapists to be the best thing. Besides helping my arm it is a nice massage for and hour. Depending on the severity the visits can be up to 3 times a week and then slowly lowered. Your insurance should pay for this. Just remember, baby that arm. No IV,BP,INJ ever in this arm. The sleeves I have plenty of, fashion statement not but they due have alot of colors to chose from. Good Luck Girl!

    Hey Tori - where did you find the different color sleeves? Are yours custom made? TIA - Diane

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