What is this?Anyone know?

mssue
mssue Member Posts: 242
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
Last night my shoulder became very uncomfortable,as I reached back to massage it I found this huge knot about the size of a mason jar lid.I've also been having chest pains ,my check up was today,my doc sent me to radiology,chest x-ray and a sonogram of my left arm,shoulder and neck making sure there wasn't a blood clot-there wasn't.But what about the rest?Has anyone else experienced this?My appointment with my doctor is Friday after next,will they call me if somethings not right .Or do I just watch this knot to see what happens it is making my arm tired or heavy feeling.The Lady that did the sonogram said there wasn't a pocket of fluid,she didn't know what it was but to keep a check on it----WHAT ELSE CAN I DO??????? The doctor said if my chest continues to hurt she would send me to a cardiologist.

Comments

  • billandpatty
    billandpatty Member Posts: 86
    #2
    mssue
    The one suggestion I have is to ask about or mention "lymphadema" to all the doctors you are seeing. Many doctors don't know much or anything about it. My step-Mom (ovarian cancer survivor) had lymphadema for a few months before anyone diagnosed her correctly. In the meantime, they tested her for clots and all kinds of stuff and she was so uncomfortable the whole time. There are some physical therapists that are trained to help you if it turns out to be lymphadema. (you can check out lymphadema on line). Hope you get a real answer and relief soon (for whatever it is). Take care.
  • DeeNY711
    DeeNY711 Member Posts: 476 Member
    #3
    It seems unreasonable and also not wise to wait two weeks before finding out whether or not the cause is clear to the doctor. I agree that you ought to consider requesting an evaluation for lymphadema. No physician is an expert in everything, and if it is lymphaedema, there are many measures you can take to alleviate that sensation of heaviness and tiredness. It is important to seek help as early as possible. Cardiologists do not treat lymphadema. If your physician does not know to whom you should go for evaluation, try contacting Reach for Recovery or the local American Cancer Society office. I honestly do hope your knot went away all by itself, but if not, make some noise and advocate for yourself. The mobility of your arm may be at stake.
  • bullfrog13
    bullfrog13 Member Posts: 213
    #4
    There are booklets available at the ACS centers-- call the 800 number and request one to be mailed to you... it may be your having... who knows.. but it is possible.Good luck and God Bless..Jerilynfrog
  • jhope
    jhope Member Posts: 58
    #5
    Hi. I am a survivor (well 3 months now post chemo and radiation) but I am also an occupational therapist. Occupational therapist specialize in lymphodema. Not sure if that is entirely what it is, I agree with others. MAKE some noise. Call and if your doc doesn't listen to you, find one that will at all costs. I had a gyn that didn't listen to me and it alsmost cost me my life. God bless, jhope
  • mssue
    mssue Member Posts: 242
    #6
    bullfrog13 said:

    There are booklets available at the ACS centers-- call the 800 number and request one to be mailed to you... it may be your having... who knows.. but it is possible.Good luck and God Bless..Jerilynfrog

    Thanks for your input.Still haven't gotten any answers but I'm going to my surgeon today to have my port removed--I'm hoping he can help me.The knot is still there and tender.I will keep your wishes and thoughts with me today as I try to get answers,if I get one I'll post it.Thank you for your support-God Bless You!!!
    Love Sue

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