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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Lymphedema first time
Answered by
Cleveland Clinic - breast cancer
Cleveland - OH
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Lymphedema first time
by carolT, Jun 06, 2009 12:40PM
I had intraductal breast cancer in 1993 at age 38 . Right segmental mastectomy, removal of 12 lymph nodes and with F/U chemo and XRT. since then I have never had lymphedema in my right arm or hand only in my breast. Now I have swollen hand and arm with redness at the antecubital and a lump above antecubital. Why now after so many years?
I have also recently had shingles on right abd, severe pressure in RUQ and pain in my ribs and whenI raise my arm. I do not feel swelling of lymph nodes under my arm. Any suggestions as my physician has none and actually dismissed as a pt because of too many problems.
I have also recently had shingles on right abd, severe pressure in RUQ and pain in my ribs and whenI raise my arm. I do not feel swelling of lymph nodes under my arm. Any suggestions as my physician has none and actually dismissed as a pt because of too many problems.
Doctor's Answer
by Cleveland Clinic, Jun 08, 2009 02:13PM
, Jun 08, 2009 02:13PM
Dear carolT, Lymphedema is swelling in the arm or leg caused by excess fluid that collects after lymph nodes and vessels are removed by surgery or treated by radiation. Lymphedema can occur within a few days, months or even years after surgery.
The key with lymphedema is to prevent it from occurring. Treatment of this condition needs to be individualized to the specific situation, after assessment of the extent of the problem. Goals of treatment would be to try to prevent further swelling, measures to relieve pain and discomfort, and prevent further problems such as skin breakdown and infection. You may want to check in your area if there is a specialist who works with persons with lymphedema, who may be able to offer other suggestions for your individual situation.
For more information about lymphedema prevention and treatment we have information on our Cleveland Clinic Website. Which is www.clevelandclinic.org once there click on Health Information Center, then type in lymphedema.
The key with lymphedema is to prevent it from occurring. Treatment of this condition needs to be individualized to the specific situation, after assessment of the extent of the problem. Goals of treatment would be to try to prevent further swelling, measures to relieve pain and discomfort, and prevent further problems such as skin breakdown and infection. You may want to check in your area if there is a specialist who works with persons with lymphedema, who may be able to offer other suggestions for your individual situation.
For more information about lymphedema prevention and treatment we have information on our Cleveland Clinic Website. Which is www.clevelandclinic.org once there click on Health Information Center, then type in lymphedema.
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