Cellulitis

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shockedat39
shockedat39 Member Posts: 252
edited August 2015 in Lymphedema

I'm not sure if this is the right place for this since I don't have lymphedema. If there's a better forum I'll be happy to post there...

I was diagnosed this morning with cellulitis from a badly infected bite/sting. It's in the right arm...the side with the missing lymph nodes :( I've been put on heavy antibiotics but I wonder if there is anything "special" I should be worried about because of said missing lymph nodes. Or maybe that's the reason it advanced to cellulitis?

I did tell the ER doctor and he seemed unmoved by it, haha. I'm a little out of my depth here, so I was just hoping someone more in the know might have some insight. Thanks! -- Diane

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  • glennie19
    glennie19 Member Posts: 6,398
    edited August 2015


    It is possible that an insect bite went all the way to cellulitis due to the affected lymph nodes. Do you have any swelling in your arm or hand?  My advice would be to get the infection taken care of,, and then when resolved, see a qualified lymphedema therapist for an evaluation.  

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  • Binney4
    Binney4 Member Posts: 8,609
    edited August 2015

    Shocked, I'm so sorry--ugh! Hope you'll have this conquered shortly! I'll second Glennie's suggestion about seeing a well-trained lymphedema therapist as soon as this infection's over. Cellulitis can happen because of sub-clinical (Stage 0) lymphedema that is already lurking, but it can also be the trigger for lymphedema, since it over-taxes the compromised lymph system. So definitely get help. Here's how to find a qualified lymphedema therapist near you:

    http://www.stepup-speakout.org/Finding_a_Qualified...

    When lymphedema is diagnosed and treated early it's SO MUCH easier to manage and control, so the timing is good to get prompt help if you need it!

    Please keep us posted. Be well!
    Binney

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  • sas-schatzi
    sas-schatzi Member Posts: 19,603
    edited August 2015

    Shocked, sorry you having trouble. This link is to a thread that is inactive. I did allot of wound evaluation/care on it. You have a closed wound. Scan through and see what may help. Hope things go well. sassy

    https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/44/topic/754935?page=1

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  • shockedat39
    shockedat39 Member Posts: 252
    edited August 2015

    Thanks, you guys. I've been on the antibiotics for two days. Yesterday I would have said it was getting better but I woke up this morning with blisters all the way down to my elbow. Back to the doctor for me :( Thanks for the advice about seeing the lymphedema specialist. I'll be making an appointment asap. I'll keep you posted...

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  • glennie19
    glennie19 Member Posts: 6,398
    edited August 2015


    UGH!!   Do keep us posted.

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  • sbelizabeth
    sbelizabeth Member Posts: 2,889
    edited August 2015

    Shockedat39, I would hope that your doctor considers hospitalizing you and giving IV antibiotics. It doesn't seem that the oral meds are winning against the wee beasties that have infected your arm. I, too, do not have lymphedema, but I've had cellulitis three times and had to have IV bug killers each time. My doctor said anyone with missing lymph nodes is at risk for cellulitis, anywhere on the body. My infections were on my chest and abdomen.

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  • Binney4
    Binney4 Member Posts: 8,609
    edited August 2015

    Shocked, we're thinking of you, rooting for you--let us know how you're doing as soon as you're able. In the meantime, hugs and prayers for quick healing,
    Binney

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