Hi all. I haven’t posted anything since I had my op. I had a left mastectomy just over two weeks ago. I think I’m coping quite well on the whole; no real trauma etc. one concern is that I have swelling in my arm pit. The consultant said it’s normal and to expect it, due to SLNB. That’s fine, but the swelling is getting worse, along with the pain. I’m not due to see him now for three months. I don’t want to make a fuss. But the pain and swelling is increasing. So much so, that I have sat here and cried tonight, in spite of taking paracetamol and ibuprofen. I also have cording, which isn’t helping. I just feel a bit alone. No one in my family can really get it, as they haven’t been through it. Does anyone know of anything to help? I’m just so tired and weary from it all. Thanks, Mel. X
Hi Mel
I am sorry to read that you are feeling so low, please feel,free to call our helpliners for some practical and emotional,support, lines are open 9-5 weekdays and 10-2 Saturdays on 0808 800 6000
Here’s a link to post surgery information from BCC which you may find helpful:
breastcancercare.org.uk/breast-cancer-information/treating-breast-cancer/surgery/after%C2%A0surgery
Take care
Lucy BCC
Hello Mel,
I just wanted to say I think your upset is really normal - I know you say you aren’t feeling traumatised, and though like you I did not feel traumatised at the time of my own mastecomy, looking back, I think it was!
Being in pain and discomfort and not knowing whether what you are experiencing is a ‘normal’ part of recovery is very distressing. I had a seroma after my lymph clearance - which is basically a build up of fluid and I had it drained in the end. I definately found the SNLB painful. I would ring the Breast Care Nurse and don’t be afraid to ask for an earlier appointment if you are worried. Sadly, the system is not always proactive and we have to be - don’t suffer in silence.
The staff on the Helpline are wonderful. Ring them and have a chat.
Cyber hugs, Rattles x
Thanks Helen. It’s been a while now and I’m ok. X
I am 3 weeks on from my op for a lumpectomy and lymph node removal (3 were taken out). I feel absolutely fine in myself and am walking every day, but I have got a lump under my arm (about the size of an egg), which is gradually going down, I think, but is very red and sore. I contacted the breast care nurse who said it sounded quite normal and to keep using the E45, which certainly helps. Have other people had the same thing?
My lump - nicknamed the slug - is still there, 11 months on. It pulls at times, but otherwise i am not aware of it. Nurse described it as a reactive lymph gland. It was tested and not an infection. But i want to get it checked at my annual check up. I hoped it would go down…by now.
Anything that’s red and sore should be checked for infection.
I’ve not been on here for ages as I’m now caring for my dad who has terminal lung cancer. Plus I’ve had other medical issues of my own to deal with, not related to BC. But I found out the other day I have skin cancer too! Things can only get better!
Anyway, I’m now 9 months post op and my lump is still there, unchanged. I’ve got used to it now, but it can be a nuisance at times. Still, I know it’s nothing of concern.
For anyone who is concerned though, it’s always worth getting things checked. Always have your mind put at rest. xx
It is important if it is red to get it checked. I can only feel mine
Helen