lymphedema

non-answers because they really don't know.....they know their jobs....the Oncologist knows chemo....the MO knows radiation....but all the crap that goes with getting those two things is a mystery to them.  Coming here is where I learned the most about getting through all the stuff.

I don't know where you're located, but here (Podunk, Montana) we have two therapists who specialize in lymphedema massage....mine was paid for by my insurance.....if the Dr.'s can't point you in the right direction, maybe talking to another cancer patient....HNC isn't the only cancer that causes lymphedema.

p

Have your rad onc order a therapist. Insurance will cover. Make SURE the therapist is Head and Neck certified! Most therapists only do limbs because that is the most common occcurence.  He/she will teach you the PROPER massage techniques. Make sure to sleep on double pillows which allow the lymph nodes to drain better. The therapist may even order you a Jovi pak to sleep in and/or wear in the evening. In many instances the lymph modes will reroute over time and the swelling will become reduced or even go away. My swelling in the neck went away around 15 months post tx.

Like others have stated there are massage therapists who specialize in this technique. It's a very light massage which starts at the lower extremeties and works it's way up. We drain like a sausage casing, squeeze some to the bottom and shove some more in. It is very common in breast cancer so that is where I would start to find a contact. Also wound care centers and cardio rehab centers have them on staff. There is a company called, "Solaris" which is online. They sell many different types of compression garments that will do the same thing while you sleep. Some are OTC and the more expensive ones would actually be measured by your massage therapist and they would make it to specifications.  My insurance paid for the massages and I went for about eight sessions which really helped get things moving again. They would not pay for the compression mask. It will all work itself out in about six months either way. All the best to you.