lymphadema

After being treated for cellulitis after my lumpectomy I think that I may have developed lymphadema in my arm which is on the side of my breast surgery.  It is slightly swollen and is painful, it feels as if I pulled a muscle, and my hand does not seem to have much strength in it.  I have an appointment with the Dr. on Monday for a check up on my cellulits. Is there something I can do until then to relieve the pain?

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

From the way you described your symptoms, it seems you are correct in suspecting lymphedema with or without infection (cellulitis).  Other issues to consider include seroma formation (accumulation of fluid underneath the skin).  The pain may be diminished by avoidance of using the affected arm as well as not putting pressure on it (during sleep or lying down).  You may also want to try oral pain medications that can be bought over the counter (one that you have taken before and proven safe).  Regards and God bless.

[japdip]

If you do indeed have lymphedema you will need to seek treatment from a Physical Therapist who has been trained in the treatment of lymphedema. There are many methods of treatment; wrapping, compression sleeves, massage. I went thru a program and used it all. I was taught the massage method and continued that routine for a year with excellentresults. There are also precautions you must take to prevent it getting worse and also to prevent the occurance of cellulitis. One thing before you do get treatment; DO NOT apply heat to the area. Elevate the arm as often as possible and no strenuousactivity involving the arm unless you are wearing a compression sleeve. good luck to you. May I suggest that you log into this forum and click on the lymphedema portion. It's very informative and a pt. to pt. forum. bcsupport.org

[lhughes]

Ditto jadip's response.  Your doc should send you to a physical therapist to learn all the stuff she mentioned so that you can deal with it.  It's not fun, but you can go on about your life in it's wake.  

Good luck to you, I've had a minor form (sometimes worsening) since my mastectomy.  Still here, still have good use of my arm, still do a lot of things you aren't supposed to (but I do know better).... and it's still for the most part ok.  I have mild to moderate swelling (on days where I do too much and did NOT wear a sleeve) which responds well to the compression sleeves.  PS.. No HEAT.  Elevate, but no heat.

Lisa