8 years post mastectomy.. Is this LE?

LittleFlower

This morning I awoke with a "tender to the touch" feeling in my tricep area.  I feel like I can't straighten my arm all the way if I lift it up over my head.  This is the first time I've ever experienced this.  Also, when I look at the physical appearance of this area, I see a white elevation, quarter size, looks like a squishy fatty little area, just slightly elevated, mostly under the skin.  In the past, I had issues with a swollen hand shortly after surgery.  I've done the sleeve and wrapping but it's been years!  Does this sound like it could lymphedema?  Could it happen so long after surgery?  

Thanks for all your responses in advance!

Moderators

Hi LittleFlower,

while you wait for responses to your concern around Lymphedema, below is some information from the main site you may find helpful

Lymphedema

The ladies here are supportive and knowledgeable however we strongly encourage that you also seek medical advice on your symptoms.

warm thoughts 

from the Mods

purple32

Hi little Flower,

It can be LE this far out, unfortunately  ...but that doesn;'t mean it has to be.

IMHO, in *your case* you might want to monitor this for a few days since it could be an injury.  Hard to say.

Meanwhile, check this out: http://www.stepup-speakout.org/

stay calm, keep the eyes open, and  re-post again with any new details.

Good Luck to you!

LittleFlower

purple32, thanks for the wonderful resource.  I'll be calling my onc in the am for advice on the next step. It feels like my arm is tethered at the elbow to shoulder. I can't straighten it.  Since I've had an axillary dissection, I want to be proactive, and of course pray it is nothing else.  I'll post my updates.