Post radiation swelling

Suznkirk
Suznkirk Member Posts: 1
in Breast Cancer #1

I am 3 months post radiation from a lumpectomy in my breast. I have unexplained swelling in the entire breast with lots of pain. 2 rounds of antibiotics and no resolve. Help

Comments

  • Beepositive
    Beepositive Member Posts: 259 Member
    #2
    SWELLING

    hello Suznkirk, i can not relate to that because i am just starting radiation..but PLEASE CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR RIGHT AWAY TO SEE IF THAT IS A NORMAL THING!! best wishes and continued recovery to you!   Beepositive  Smile

  • disneyfan2008
    disneyfan2008 Member Posts: 6,583 Member
    edited April 2017 #3
    I did not have swelling per

    I did not have swelling per say-but 9 yr later I have numbness on that side...(2 lumpectomies-very small breasted to start with)

    Denise

  • peony
    peony Member Posts: 306 Member
    #4
    Hi Suznkirk,

    Hi Suznkirk,

    I have swelling in my operative breast after radiation. It sounds like it's lymphedema, which I have, and it should be seen by your radiation oncologist.  You didn't say who gave you the antibiotics, but the fluid in your breast can cause an infection, so keep taking them.  I saw a physical therapist who specializes in lymphedema and she taught me how to massage the fluid out of my breast.  I was also fitted with compression garments. I wear a sleeve, a glove, and we're working on a compression bra, but we can't seem to get the fit right.  Here's a little info.

    Lymphedema facts

     

    • Lymphedema is a condition that results from impaired flow of the lymphatic system.
    • Symptoms of lymphedema include swelling in one or more extremities. The swelling may range from mild to severe and disfiguring.
    • Primary lymphedema is present at birth; secondary lymphedema develops as a result of damage to or dysfunction of the lymphatic system.
    • Breast cancer treatment is the most common cause of lymphedema in the U.S.
    • While there is no cure for lymphedema, compression treatments and physical therapy may help reduce the swelling and discomfort.
  • Rague
    Rague Member Posts: 3,653 Member
    #5
    It might be good to request a

    It might be good to request a Referral to a LymphEddma Therapist for an evaluation and education.  Not just to a PT (Physical Therapist) or OT (Occupational Therapist) who has further education that is directly related to LE (LymphEdema).   Not just a PT that claims to 'know ALL about LE".  Unfortunately, many/most Drs have little to no knowledge about LE.   It can develop anytime after any surgery or traumatic injury.  With BC, it is usually thought of as being in hand/arm but can be in breast area for some.

    Has any blood work been done to evalute levels? Would possibly/probably be a good idea if not.  Blood work can show a lot.

Discussion Boards