Edema in hand and arm

I had breast cancer in 1993 at the age of 38. Although they removed 12 lymph nodes I have never experienced edema in my arm until now. My right hand is very noticeably swollen and my right arm has minimal edema. However, just above my antecubital area it is noticeably red and there seems to be some swelling like a lump just above it. Ishowed it to the doctor but he did not seem to notice what I am seeing. I am also experiencing terrible pain in my right side of my abdomen and in my ribs. Also, im my right breast. He ordered Xrays and a CT on my insistance but all were normal. My labs show very high sed rate (111), CRP (88) and low Hgb, and Hct. I also have had shingles over the right side of my abdomen for 4 weeks and have a terrible salty taste in my mouth all the time. To add to all of this, the doctor's office called yesterday and suggested that I find another doctor because nothing seems to be wrong. I feel sometimes like no one cares at all. Just for background I also have Hashimotos thyroiditis, fibromyalgia, an undiagnosed neuromuscular disorder where I fall and black out all the time and have no refleses and no feeling in my left foot, I had a CVA at age 35 because my thyroid is wrapped around my carotids.
My parents and all close family members die of cancer so I have to watch for problems. I know this is long but if anyone has experienced edema long after segmemtal mastectomy I would love ot hear your thoughts!

[japdip]

I think you should ask for a referral to a Physical Therapist who is trained in the treatment of Lymphedema to have the swelling in your arm and hand evaluated. It doesn't have anything to do with the mastectomy but the removal of lymph nodes ... even one removed will put you at risk for developing LE and it can come at any time after surgery. I will tell you that some Dr.s do not give LE much credence and some even refuse to recognize that it even occurs. Believe me it does !  If this is truly Lymphedema then the sooner you begin treatment the better the chance that it will be successful. There is no cure but it can be managed with massage and compression garments.     Regards ....