used wrong arm

lynne40
lynne40 Member Posts: 87
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
Hi everyone I was just reading the postings about how important it is Not to have blood drawn from the arm that had breast cancer, when I realized that I DID JUST THAT YESTERDAY!!! Now what? Can you believe it I FORGOT! Now I'm freaking out I had a lumpectomy but still i know you're not supposed to use that arm, now what do I do? Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks,
Lynne

Comments

  • jeancmici
    jeancmici Member Posts: 665 Member
    #2
    Just watch it for any signs of infection - we get scratches on that arm/hand etc. and they heal. Onco said each puts some stress on the immune system but my guess - for what it's worth - is that you will be fine. And I'll bet you'll never forget again. I have almost forgotten a couple of times with the blood pressure. Let your doc know if it will make you feel more reassured.

    Good Luck!
    Jean
  • sassysally
    sassysally Member Posts: 150
    #3
    Lynne, I have had both breasts removed due to breast cancer. Dont worry about using that arm. With me they have no choice..... its ok. Hang in there.
  • tlmac
    tlmac Member Posts: 272 Member
    #4
    Hi Lynn, Any chance you had a sentinal node biopsy instead of the traditional axilary node dissection? I ask because it isn't the removal of the breast that poses a threat to your arm, it's the extent of disruption to your lymph system. I had both breasts removed a year ago. On the right, it was a simple mastectomy and they took only mammary lymph nodes. The left side was a modified radical and they took 13 level one nodes. That's the arm I guard. My right arm is used all the time for blood pressure and blood tests. It was even used for my chemo. Hope this helps.
    terri
  • seeknpeace
    seeknpeace Member Posts: 259
    #5
    It is a confusing issue for me as well. I had a bilateral w/tram flap and they took three nodes from the axilliary (sp) area on the right side. I wonder if all the concern applies to me, since they did not take the whole node axillary.

    Anyone know? I use my left for everything to be safe but, wonder about cutting cuticles, digging in the flower beds, etc.
  • lynne40
    lynne40 Member Posts: 87
    #6
    tlmac said:

    Hi Lynn, Any chance you had a sentinal node biopsy instead of the traditional axilary node dissection? I ask because it isn't the removal of the breast that poses a threat to your arm, it's the extent of disruption to your lymph system. I had both breasts removed a year ago. On the right, it was a simple mastectomy and they took only mammary lymph nodes. The left side was a modified radical and they took 13 level one nodes. That's the arm I guard. My right arm is used all the time for blood pressure and blood tests. It was even used for my chemo. Hope this helps.
    terri

    Thanks for the reassurances from everyone, and yes I had a sentinal node biopsy, no nodes involved. I always wondered because I know some women have both breasts removed so it would really be an issue!Thanks Teri!
  • DoubleKnot
    DoubleKnot Member Posts: 41
    #7
    lynne40 said:

    Thanks for the reassurances from everyone, and yes I had a sentinal node biopsy, no nodes involved. I always wondered because I know some women have both breasts removed so it would really be an issue!Thanks Teri!

    Hello Lynne,

    I too had the Lumpectomy and Sentinel Node Biopsy. No cancer had spread Thank God, but I have been guarding my arm to the limit. My sister advised me to guard it at all costs to prevent the lymphedema. In fact, before my last surgery, I took a Magic Marker and wrote "No BP AND NO NEEDLES IN THIS ARM PLEASE." That is what I read on a Lymphedema site to do, so it got their attention to say the least. Before the surgeon put me under the anesthesia, he picked up my right arm and read out loud what I had written. I don't care if they got a chuckle out of it, I would be asleep and not be able to speak up for myself. It worked, because I didn't have any problems. It is still a concern though and I know how you feel. I do my massages and exercises still, to do all that I can to prevent the Lymphedema. Good luck to you.

    DoubleKnot

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