Hi, I don’t want to rush and think it’s lymphodema but have swelling around wound to side of breast. Arm and hands are fine. Could this just be from the op, yesterday I did too much I think housework wise xx
Good morning - maybe you can contact a BC Nurse at your hospital for some advice this morning, to put your mind at rest, or for them to tell you to come in and someone have a look? Better than worrying methinks.
As an aside, I’m one year on from a WLE and lymph node removal ( 11 out, 1 positive ) and I decided to hoover the whole of the house yesterday afternoon as everyone was out - and this morning I am definitely feeling ‘different’ in the underarm area, and that will remind me that little and often is better than a blitz !!! I used to carry loads of heavy shopping too, and that’s something I had to revise. . . . .
I’m sure it’s early days for you and everything is still mending, but if in doubt, get a professional to give you the thumbs up, if you can. x
Good morning,
Rather than worry, if I were in your position, I too would speak with your Breast Care Team. It’s always better to get it looked at.
I would imagine, however, that if anything it may be a seroma rather than lymphodema - but that’s my own personal view and of course, I can’t see the area you’re concerned about.
I’m 2 years on from having all my lymph nodes removed under my right arm (17 in total - 1 was positive or had been before chemo!) - and I still get aching after strenuous activity. I still don’t carry heavy bags in that hand - it’s adapting yourself accordingly!
I have an area of loose skin under my arm to the side of my mastecomy - it’s something they refer to as a “dogs ears” - apparently you can have surgery to remove which I’m fairly happy to avoid.
You have a perfect excuse to cut down on the housework - you know there is always a silver lining to most situations!!!
Take care x
Hi Avilajo, if it is localised swelling it is probably a seroma. Lymphodema is when the lymph glands can’t or don’t re route fluid and there is a build up in the whole arm, resulting in extreme puffiness and heaviness. My advice is to get it checked out ASAP…and knock the housework on the head until you do! X