shingles on arm with no lymph glands

[daisyduke5]

I had breast cancer in 2005 and finished my chemo and radio at the end of 2006. i do have a few problems with my arm and my right breast still hurts from time to time. i had a partial mastectomy. I started having a lot of aching this week and my arm swelled and was told after visiting the docs as a rash had formed that i may have shingles. i have noticed a couple of blisters forming and its quite sore. How does this affect my arm with having no lymph glands. I also feel a lump in my arm. any replies would be appreciated.

[healingwell62]

Hi!

Wow, that must be painful.  Do you have a lymphedema specialist that you see?  An OT or PT, or similar lymphedema specialist?  I would contact them to find out what you can do to minimize the effects of the shingles on your arm.  You might use your compression sleeve if it's not too painful, and do some light lymphedema massage to keep the swelling in check -- run this past  your lymphedema person before you start self treatment, ok?

Best wishes,  

Warmly,

Chris
Healingwell62
Breast Cancer Community Leader

[japdip]

I definitely agreee with Chris ... but I'm not sure about the Shingles thing. Might it be Cellulitis ? This would certainly be something that may very well occur in the arm on the operative side. by the way you do have some lymph glands on that side ... we have 100s of them and only a few are removed at the time of surgery and the remaining lymph nodes take over. No matter what the cause you should have been given some medication as there is treatment for both conditions. DO NOT let this go untreated ... see someone else if you must but get some treatment.   Regards ...

[daisyduke5]

hi

Thanks, how weird when I had my op they told me I had a full lymph gland removal. I have 2 lots of antibiotics and a anti viral tablet. the sweeling is easing but do hav a lump.. Back at the docs tomorrow so will see what she says

Thanks for your replys

Linda