Looking for reassurance

amazinggrace
amazinggrace Member Posts: 8
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I was wondering if anyone else has encountered this.....I am now 48, was dx in August with IDC, they removed 5 nodes-all neg!-tumor 1cm,er+,pr+,had lumpectomy and rads and am now on tamoxifen.
My question is this....I have a lump under my arm that is tender. I have an appt with my onc in 2 wks. My surgeon wasn't concerned when he examined it b/c I was still healing from the rads (had terrible burns for 4 wks after treatment). I am all healed from the burns, and have been on tamoxifen for a month. Could this just be something that hasn't healed yet? I just don't want to get worked up about it, but it's getting worse instead of better.
I'm hoping someone has something encouraging that they can share with me!
Thanks!
Laurie

Comments

  • hummingbyrd
    hummingbyrd Member Posts: 950 Member
    #2
    Getting worse instead of better might be concerning...unless you are, I dare say, like the majority of the rest of us, meaning when you find something you check it so often it becomes tender.
    Trust me, it is natural to be concerned about every lump, bump, pain, strain...headache, sneeze, sniffle, etc, etc, to begin with, but it will get better.
    I say that to say this, you are right to be concerned, not because this is anything, like the surgeon said, you are probably still healing, but be concerned because it IS important to check everything out.
    If you are really worried try to get an earlier appointment, mainly so you don't waste precious energy worrying.
    Radiation treatment has a long lasting effect. The good news is at the time of surgery the nodes they checked were all negative.
    Has the lump been there since radiation? or is it new? If new do you shave and could you have possibly nicked yourself? Another thought is to call onc's office and talk to his nurse. Just a few suggestions, hope they help.
    Will pray for you.
    Stand on God's Word and stay solid as a rock!
    God bless.
    hummingbyrd
  • 24242
    24242 Member Posts: 1,398 Member
    #3
    Reassurance I am not sure anyone can give you. I know what it is like to find lumps but mine were found after treatments were done. I was stage 3 IDC breast cancer and I did have 11 out of 21 positive nodes and no one was concerned but me. I had the other breast removed due to reoccurring lumps but all were benign. I had pain with each and every lump I have had and there have now been 5 in total. I am trying to live with one in my face that they feel is benign as well and I can tell you it isn't easy when it bothers you and you have already battled this disease. If I cannot get beyond it, this lump too will have to go.
    We have to be our own best advocates and I think that is the best that we can be. You are fortunate to be still dealing with cancer doctors and keep bringing your concerns forward.
    I was 36 at time of my diagnosis and I am now 45 and find it doesn't get any easier with each lump but we must do what we have to to get on with our lives.
    Be good to yourself,
    Tara
  • timlou
    timlou Member Posts: 60
    #4
    You shuld call or go to your dr. now. As you can see the answer is yes we have all encounterd lumps and bumps after surgery. Mine were scar tissue more from the plastic surgeon. They drive me crazy and I go every time I feel them change to see my Gynocologist who either sends me for a sonogram or after feeling them tells me to watch for awhile. My daughter on the other hand has had that similar lump you write about and has been told that it is just drainage and your lympnodes still have a purpose to drain. Unfortuately they do not drain as well on the affected side and can cause some pretty mean lymphedema so go now to your Oncologist's office you don't have to see the doctor there are lot's of experts to help you in the meantime keep your arm on a pillow and try to remember not to put anything on that shoulder or especially do not carry your purse in the crook of your elbow, it interferes with drainage too. Take care, Louise
  • ClaudiaAnn
    ClaudiaAnn Member Posts: 51
    #5
    I've had two little lumps checked since my one sided mastectomy last year. Both times my onc and surg said it felt like normal breast tissue, but sent me for mammo and ultrasounds just to be sure. Things do pop up that are not always bad. The surgeon has a wonderful reply when I said "I know I'm being paranoid but every little thing worries me." She said "you're not being paranoid, you're being diligent." So, be diligent and check it if you feel the need. Peace of mind is a very valuable thing to us. Do whatever you need to do to achieve it. Hugs to you.

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