6 weeks post radiation and still armpit & breast discomfort

momwithaplan

I have valued so much the ability to read through everyone's experiences through the different threads on this site. It is comforting to know that there are so many women walking through this journey together. I am now 6 weeks post radiation and have still been feeling a lot of tenderness in my armpit area and am starting to feel a small lump about an inch away from my lumpectomy site. I am also taking Tamoxifen and handling that well. I have to think that the likelihood of any cancer growing would be very low due to recent treatment but I am not 100% sure. I am trying to learn how to cope with the fear that it will come back again. I don't have another follow up appointment until January 4 and am wondering if I should call my doctor to discuss the armpit discomfort and small lump. I value any advice you might have.

Anonymous

It's been 3 weeks since I finished rads. I had a tender area in my armpit, and that has healed. I spent a lot of time holding my arm out and sleeping with my arm away from my body.

It is not unreasonable for you to ask to see your doctor. I have follow-up appointments next week with both MO and RO. I would call if I were you. Hope you feel better soon.

Blinkie

Momwithaplan, You could call the radiation or oncology nurse and share your concerns. She will know the details of your situation and should be able to give you some guidance.

For me, radiation ended about 14 weeks ago. I am still a bit tender and swollen in the armpit where I received radiation. Last week I saw a lymphedema therapist for the first time. (I do not have lymphedema, but wanted to get measured and learn all about it.) The therapist said that it is not unusual to still be tender even after 14 weeks. She said we need to notice if any puffiness feels hard or soft. It should feel soft. If it feels hard, go see the lymphedema therapist.

Susanrebecca

I had my lumpectomy December 8th 2014. I had a seroma and mastitis post op. I also had seven weeks of radiation. I developed a sensitivity to the sun and developed hives after any sun exposure . I was put on Prednisone for one week which took care of the hives . I am able to go into the sun but I always try to wear sunscreen or long sleeves. I had corded lymphedema after my surgery which was diagnosed by my radiation oncologist. I received treatment from a therapist that specializes in lymphedema and she "snapped" the cord, which was not painful . Almost two years out, I still have pain in my right arm and arm pit. Swelling in my right armpit, breast and back. I was advised that lymphedema doesn't cause pain but I do have pain. So the therapist thinks I might have nerve damage from the lymph node removal. I also want to mention that I was on arimidex for 13 months. I noticed that my distance vision seemed to be deteriorating . I've seen 3 opthamologists. None will say that it's the medication. I have stopped taking arimidex . I'm now under the care of an opthamologist whom I see every month. I'm hoping that my eyesight stabilizes. Ophthalmic toxicity is not usually listed as a possible side effect. It is possible in a small percentage of women.

tangandchris

I would encourage you to call the doctor if you have questions/concerns/fears or anything else that makes you feel anxious. It isn't unreasonable for you to feel this way so soon out Just give them a call and see what they say, they are used to dealing with patients that have ended active treatment and those who may need some extra hand holding.

Nyr4evr

Definitely move up your appointment. This is the only way to remove your fears. We are all so vulnerable with this disease. The nurse at my rads office recommended using corn starch with a blush brush under my arms over my cream. This prevents rubbing and irritation of underarm. Starting to do it and it is stopping the horrible rubbing sensation. Maybe give it a try. Be liberal with the brush and corn starch. Might relieve the pain. It gets very irritated. I have pain under my arm where the lymph nodes were removed. Nerve endings are tricky. You are probably fine but put your mind at ease and get it checked. That is what your oncologist is for good luck.

sora

I am new to this site and hope you don't mind my tuning in so late. I hope you are doing well and feeling less pain in your armpit and breast. If you don't have lymphedema has anyone suggested fibrosis of your breast? That is what I am struggling with after 25 RT which I finished in November.

I hope you are doing well.

mjr