lymphedema, Herceptin and Radiation???

mcgis

Hi! I've got two questions:

There are so many pages on here so I'm not sure where to start. I just started the regimen of Herceptin every 3 weeks from every week today. I'm 5 weeks out from my last chemo. My arm seems a bit more swollen this evening so I'm wondering if you experience more issues with your lymphedema right after getting Herceptin?

For those who received radiation did your lymphedema get worse? My radiologist said that can happen and I've read it. I'm really worried about that.

This just sucks having to go through all that we have and then have to live with this the rest of our lives too. Thanks for any input you have.

Binney4

mcgis, hello!

I didn't do herceptin, so I'm sorry I can't answer your question. But I will say we don't hear about that happening here on the lymphedema board, so at least we can say it sure isn't something that happens always.

Radiation can make lymphedema worse, or at least harder to manage. Do you have a good lymphedema therapist? If so, do talk to her/him about this. Do you have well-fitting compression sleeves and gloves that you wear regularly, or can wear regularly during rads? That helps to keep the swelling in control throughout. Staying well hydrated is essential too, and now that the weather is generally cooler (in the northern hemisphere at least) it can be hard to remember to keep drinking lots of water. Plan to elevate your arm whenever possible, even at night on pillows. If you know how to wrap, consider wrapping more often during rads. If you don't, do insist on learning how to do that--it's a great tool to have in your lymphedema tool-box for anytime you travel or experience a flare.

You're right--this is a really crummy accompaniment to bc treatment, and it adds a lot of frustration to an already-difficult situation. We're all here for you--please tell us how we can help.

Gentle hugs,

Binney