Questions

CarylC

I had a bi-mx with SNB on Thursday.  I had no idea about the risks of LE and my doctor didn't discuss any of this with me.  The hospital sent me home with an instruction sheet that had all this "dont do" on the side you had the lymph nodes removed but what if you had removal on both sides?

I feel like I'm in a Twilight Zone episode after reading that sheet!  My left hand is swollen and has been since surgery, could that just be because it had the IV in it?  When do I start to worry?  

Any words of advice are much appreciated! 

kira66715

Carlyc, it's so early post-op that this could just be post op swelling. You may want to consider meeting with a lymphedema therapist to get some baseline measurements and advice:

http://www.stepup-speakout.org/Finding_a_Qualified_Lymphedema_Therapist.htm

On the site, there is general information and risk reduction information.

Post-op, the recommendations are to elevate your arm above heart level on pillows, to hydrate and do deep breathing and to pump your hands like fists, every so often to pump the fluid out. 

Recently, there have been articles that suggest you don't try and stretch above shoulder height with the arms until 10-14 days post op, to give the axilla some time to heal.

It's really early, but consider an evaluation by a LE therapist for peace of mind and information.

Take it easy, raise the arms on pillows and let us know if we can help.

Kira