Potentially Silly Question

FightLikeAGirl72

Can you have lymphedema in connection with your diagnosis of breast caner?  I only ask because my arm is tingly, swollen and just feels weird.  I already know I have lymph node involvement with my breast cancer, all the goodies, such as lymphedema is something I don't know much about.  Thanks.

Lily55

not normally no it usually comes after lymph nodes been removed, your symptoms might be connected though just nit lymphedema, make sure you tell your doctors

glennie19

definitely tell your doctor.  Usually LE occurs after the lymph nodes have been removed, though.

Binney4

Girl72, depending on the position of the tumor, you can get some LE symptoms from the tumor itself blocking lymph flow. Not real common, but with your treatment plan in place you're well on your way to solving that problem! Make sure you bring it to the attention of your doctors right away, as they may want to rule out other causes (like a blood clot). 

For now, elevate your arm as much as possible (on the back of the couch while watching TV, on pillows at night), stay really well hydrated (helps dilute lymph fluid and keep it moving) and pause from time to time to take a few deep, abdominal breathes (stimulates the largest lymph vessel in our bodies).

Where breast cancer and lymphedema are concerned, there are no silly questions, potentially or otherwise! Good for you for being aware and looking for answers. Do let us know what you discover.

Gentle hugs,
Binney

kareenie

and if you want to educate yourself on lymphedema go to website. StepUp SpeakOut which has tons of useful info.