New to LE risk - what am I feeling?

JennieKeaton

Hi Everyone! I had a DMX on 10.24 with tissue expanders. Had four nodes removed from right arm at that time. Currently undergoing 4 cycles of TC chemo. After my second cycle last week, my right arm feels a bit "off". It's almost like a tiny bit of a pinched nerve. I have no swelling, and the feeling of "off" comes and goes. I'm not sure if I'm feeling an early lymphodema, effects of the neulasta (bone pain) or just SE of the chemo (neuropathy). I'm also not sure how to watch/monitor. I'm hopeful that with only four nodes remove, it's unlikely to be LE, but don' t know how to know for sure.....

Binney4

Hi, Jennie,

This is such a good question--with lymphedema we have to advocate for ourselves, and you're aware and doing just that!

The medical professionals who diagnose and treat lymphedema are well-trained lymphedema therapists. Any member of your medical team can write you a referral for an evaluation, and catching it early is important for easier managing of it in the future. Here's how to find a qualified lymphedema therapist near you:

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

At an evaluation s/he will take baseline arm measurements for future reference, give you some personalized risk reduction suggestions, begin treatment if lymphedema is present, and if not s/he may help you get a compression sleeve and glove to use prophylactically when exercising or traveling.

Do check this out, and please let us know what you discover. Meanwhile, wishing you smooth sailing through the rest of your bc treatment, and no "swell" surprises ever!

Gentle hugs,
Binney