Breast cancer survivor with swollen, burning underarm lymph nodes

[Lisagang]

Hello.  Last July, I had a lumpectomy to remove a 2 cm cancerous tumor (rated 6 in agressiveness).  Sentinenal nodes were all negative.  I had four chemo treatments followed by radiation to the left breast (where tumor was).  I am now on tamoxifen as the tumor tested hormone positive.  (I have been declared pre-menopausal even though I have had a hysterecomy - I am 47 years old.)  About 5 days ago, both my underarm lymph nodes  became swollen with a Full feeling and sometimes I do feel a slight burning sensation in the Underarm area.  I had extensive mammograms done 3 weeks ago (because I felt a small lump in the right breast)_.  The mammograms did not show anything alarming and it was thought by the Radiologist that the lump was fat tissue.  I have requested an ultrasound (which I will have next Tuesday) just to be sure.  Now, I am more concerned with this underarm lymph node problem.  I have been exposed to viruses - last week, I took care of my children who all had colds.  Also, I have been doing more heavy lifting that usual.  Could lymph nodes be swollen from any of these things, or should I suspect cancer again?   Thank you!  Lisa Dalton

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Lisagang:  If your lymph nodes are swollen and painful on both sides (bilaterally), it is more likely to be due to a virus or injury.  However, since you are getting the ultrasound next week anyway, you can point this out to the radiologist and these can be examined as well.