Lymphodema above collar bone???

[Demi49]

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.

[Nanny_Sal]

Thanks rattles,

I was offered an appointment with a lady that came to the hospital with specialist bras and prosthesis! But the fact I would of needed some sort of padding for my healthy side, put me right off! I didn't want a constant daily reminder, or be made to feel anymore self conscious than I already felt.

But I suppose I now have Lymphodema, so maybe if I had got a better bra months ago, things wouldn't of got this far!! I wish at some point that this roller coaster ride would end, because I am seriously ready to get off!

Sending best wishes to everyone else who might need them xxxx

[Rattles]

Hello Nanny Sal,

Sorry you have this additional worry. I just wanted to add to other reply that you can get special Bras and what I can only describe as foam\padding to provide compression.

Good luck with your appointment.

Rattles

[Nanny_Sal]

Thanks Jo.

Thanks Lakeslover, sorry to hear you have Lymphodema, but thanks for the advice. My problem at the moment is I can't find a decent supportive bra that fits! Because the surgery side is on odd shape and swollen, it's about a cup size bigger than my untreated side! So I have been wearing a belvia bra, as it's the only bra that felt comfortable. I suppose this might not be helping with the swelling!

I think I'll have to add that to the list of questions I have ready to ask the nurse.

Thanks for taking the time to reply. Xx

[Jo_BCC]

Hi Nanny_Sal

I have put for you below links to areas of this website where you will find more information about Lymphoedema and how to treat it.

http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/breast-cancer-information/treating-breast-cancer/lymphoedema

http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/breast-cancer-information/impact-breast-cancer/long-term-side-eff...

http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/breast-cancer-information/treating-breast-cancer/lymphoedema/trea...

I hope you find this helpful.  Please don't hesitate to contact our helpline if you need more information or support.

Take care,

Jo, Moderator

[Lakeslover]

Hi Sal,

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.

[Nanny_Sal]

Hi.

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?

Has anyone on here had the same issue?

Thanks

Sal xx