elbow swelling

Goincrzy8

Can you get lymphedema in your elbow? Had UMX in Dec 3 days left of radiation. I noticed my left elbow is a bit sore and I thought it was because I have been sitting in my recliner more. I felt it today and it feels like fluid on the elbow joint. I am taking a trip (flying) at end of month and RO is sending me to see a specialist since I had 12 nodes removed. I found the swollen elbow after I saw her.

MinusTwo

goingcrazy: Absolutely you can. Hopefully you're going to certified & trained lymphadema specialist. They need to do measurements if you haven't had that done and start MLD (manual lymph drainage). Eventually they need to teach you how to do MLD every day. I would recommend you consider a sleeve & glove or gauntlet for your flight, but you should be professionally measured.

The link below has a lot of good information.

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

Goincrzy8

Thanks Minus.....

ChiSandy

One of the ways they diagnose LE is to compare your two arms—hands to wrists to elbows on up. A telltale sign is that the affected elbow looks less pointy than the other one. But fluid & swelling on the joint & nowhere else could also be inflammation due to osteoarthritis and the strain of leaning on the elbow. See an orthopedist too.

Goincrzy8

thanks Sandy, I was never worried about lymphedema, but when I asked about flying it send my mind wandering. I have 3 radiation appointments left and I don't want any issues other than the skin issues I am having.

MinusTwo

goincrazy - My RO is the only doc who didn't pooh-pooh my questions about LE. She send me directly to a certified & trained therapist to check it out. Good luck.

Goincrzy8

thanks Minus, I hope they can get the referral and get me in before trip, I fly out July 28....and we know how long some doctors can take