Jean Larson

I had bilateral breat cancer, 3 years apart. I have had lymphedema in both arms which required treatment. I have recently become very bloated in my stomach, I look and feel like 8 months pregnant. Can this be lymphedema, and what can I do about it?
Thank you, Jean
p.s. I'm 74 years old.

[jasmine1988]

It requires the attention of a doctor, and I think you should see your doctor as soon as possible.

[Tinabudde]

Hi Jean, It sounds like you had masectomies or at least lumpectomies and with them comes the removal of at least breast nodes and possibly the axilla node under the arms so that would explain lymphedema in both arms.  Yes the stomach area can become bloated from fluid, it is called truncal lymphedema and it can accumulate because the rest of the lymph system is impaired.  See, lymphedema is not just an arm or leg, for lymphedema to show up at least 30% I believe is the figure but don't quote me on that it's somewhere near that amount, has to become impaired and/or blocked.  So it's not just in your arms, your whole system is slow because it can't circulate properly.  I have truncal lymphedema as well.  Sometimes it's not true secondary lymphedema, which they normally call lymphedema from cancer.  Sometimes the patient has less lymph nodes to start and the cancer is a trigger for it to show up and spread.  You do need to see your doctor as soon as possible though just because you have had cancer and they should do a pelvic cat scan, MRI or ultrasound to be sure there is no problem with your ovaries and/or colon.  Truncal lymphedema if diagnosed by ruling out other problems, can be treated with the same lymphedema therapy combined decongestive therapy that you probably had on your arms.  Did they teach you how to do the therapy at home?  Sometimes if your just work on your arms and not on the main nodes the fluid builds up in the abdomen/stomach area as well.  You can read more on my website *********.com and if you need help finding a therapist contact me and I will help you find one but definitely get to the doctor and get other things ruled out.