radiation related symptoms?

Swede

Hi everyone. I am approximately 10 months post lumpectomy with SLND (positive for macromets), 6 months post chemo, 2 months post radiation and have been on AIs for 2 months. In the last week I have noticed increased swelling, warmth and tenderness in the affected breast, and slightly reduced range of motion of that arm as well. Today I noticed a small pea-sized lump at the SLND area which I do not remember being there before. However, before, the SLND area was not tender so I was not feeling around. I have a call into the doctor, but in the meantime, I am wondering what you think? Is it likely that I am feeling a lymph node or new tumor? Can these symptoms still be related to radiation? My anxiety level is really beginning to rise. Thanks in advance.

614

Dear Swede:

I don't know.  However, I finished radiation in October 2014 and about a month afterwards, I started noticing that it is painful to lift my arm all of the way above my head.  I don't know whether that is due to the radiation or my double lumpectomy with the sentinel lymph node dissection.  Now, I have a hematoma that diminished from 8cm to the size of a golf ball after an MRI guided biopsy in May 2015.  I think that I am just going to have to live with these side effects.  My MO said that the hematoma may never go away on its own.  I stretch my arm a lot which helps.  Good luck to you.  I wish that I could help more.