I am due to see the Lymphodema Nurse at the end of November. My BCN arranged the appointment after I had a few occasions when my hand and fingers swelled up. While I was on holiday recently I had real problems with my hand swelling, due to the heat. Since getting back, it hasn’t been too bad.
BUT
I have noticed that my Breast, under my arm and above my collar bone are all feeling swollen. I had an ultrasound of the collarbone area a few weeks ago, and it was all clear. But the area just seems to be getting more and more swollen. I am now wandering if it might be Lymphodema? Is it possible to have Lymphodema in that area?
Yes, it is possible to have lymphodema in the breast. I have it in my breast, and in my arm on the same side (I had WLE and node clearance in 2011). The lymphodema nurse showed me how to massage both to activate the remaining lymph nodes and direct the fluid across to drain on the other sides she also used kinesio tape on the breast. She also recommended exercises to help the flow.
Until you see the specialist one thing mine recommended which you can do is to buy a good, well fitting, supportive bra. I think there may be some exercises available on here somewhere too.
Thats really interesting. I got some swelling above my collar bone and in my arm pit last summer, scanned and nothing there, but went back 3 weeks ago with lumps in that breast and now have all the lymph nodes cleared as well as the lumps. Still have the swelling above my collar bone.