Swollen fingers overnight

ReadingMama

Hi, two weeks ago I was in the midst of a bad cold and woke up and my fingers on my left side (cancer) were swollen.  Only slightly, I could tell because my rings were tight.  It goes down during the day, maybe an hour after I get up.  My hand does not seem swollen as I can still see my tendons.  This has now happenned every day for 2 weeks.  Is this a possible first sign of LE?  I'm 5 weeks out from surgery and still taking Herceptin.  About to start Rads.

kira66715

ReadingMama, swollen fingers can be the first sign of LE--and now is a very vulnerable time for you as you head into rads. The best thing would be to see a good LE therapist, get measured, get taught some self massage and techniques to minimize swelling and get what ever other treatment seems necessary. Also, risk reduction information is important.

Here's a link to how to find a qualified therapist--you'll need a referral from one of your doctors.

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

It's great that you're being so aware of a minor symptom, and early treatment is key to keeping things from progressing. 

Let us know if you need more information.

Kira

ReadingMama

Thanks.  It's all very overwhelming.  I'm not sure how I would manage to see a LE therapist now, between working and rads my days are already not long enough! But I don't want it to get worse either.  The LE therepists on that site are not particularly near me.  I think I will call the one at the hospital, who is referred by the BS, to see what kind of specific LE training she has.

kira66715

ReadingMama, it is so overwhelming--I have "interviewed" therapists to see what their training is, and if they're a good fit. If your BS likes her, that's a good sign.

Kira