Member Comments are provided by individuals and reflect their personal opinions only. Under NO circumstances should you act on any advice or opinion posted in this forum. ALWAYS check with your personal physician before taking any action regarding your health! MedHelp International and our partners, sponsors and affiliates have no obligation to monitor any comments posted on this site, or the content and/or accuracy of such exchanges. MedHelp International does not endorse the views of any user.
Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Is this Lymphedema?
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.
Is this Lymphedema?
by dianeresp, Apr 26, 2003 12:00AM
My mastectomy was April 17 th. I understand the brusing and some soreness. All around the mast. sight is VERY sore. I can move my arm around well. Under my arm is the worse. Is there anything I can do to help this problem?
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-rf, Apr 28, 2003 12:00AM
Dear dianeresp: It is expected that the surgery site and the surrounding muscles will be very sore. However, you should let your doctor know what is happening to be sure that there is nothing else going on that could be causing more pain than expected. Let your doctor know right away if you notice that the site is red, hot to touch, is draining (not including any drains), swollen or if you have a fever. These can be signs of infection, which can also cause increased pain. This does not sound like lymphedema.
Member Comments (3)
by surgeon, Apr 27, 2003 12:00AM
You are still very early post op; time will improve things dramatically. Your surgeon should tell you what sort of motion exercises to do. What you describe does not sound like lymphedema: lymphedema is characterized by swelling of the hand and/or arm. Doing certain exercizes, such as squeezing a ball, may reduce the chance of getting it.
by dianeresp, Apr 27, 2003 12:00AM
Thank you for your comment. My Doctor did not say anything about exercise. It is very good to know this will go away. Thank you very much.
