Could it be lymphedema?

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JoanDavies
JoanDavies Member Posts: 160
edited January 2020 in Lymphedema

I had a double mastectomy in early 2011, including removal of 3 nodes from my right armpit. In the last couple of months, my right arm has started tingling and burning. I also have some fairly large lumps in my armpit. I went for an ultrasound and the doctor said the lumps are characteristic of cancer, so I go in next week for a biopsy. I didn't mention anything about the tingling or burning sensations because I didn't think it was related to the lumps. But after reading about lymphedema, I'm wondering if that is what's going on? I dont have any swelling, but do have the tingling, warmth, burning, and heaviness/tightness. Of course, I'm imagining worst case, that the cancer has returned. Hopefully it's (just?) Lymphedema, although I don't know how bad that can be and if it can even occur this many years after surgery. I haven't been on this site since 2011, but it was comforting back then to be in this community, so here I am again...

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  • Bonnie7
    Bonnie7 Member Posts: 57
    edited January 2020

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

    Hi Joan,

    Have a look at the above Site re lymphedema, it's extremely informative. Lymphedema can flare up years after treatment.

    I am in a similar situation, with some pain and heaviness sensation in my right arm. Remember lymphedema doesn't have to be visual..ie., swelling. The lumps may be inflamed lymph nodes...good luck and pse keep posting to let us know how you got on.

    My (r) upper quadrant is a mess with deconstruction of lat dorsi and x 2 extra tissue surgeries by a general surgeon.....I refuse to see him now. I am afraid I have become very cynical of breast cancer overtreatment, for some, and scaremongering by medical staff. A little bit of hope and reassurance can go a long way!

    Sorry I don't mean to go so off track! Happy New Year to everyone, hope it's as healthy and happy as can be!

    Bonnie 💛😘💖


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  • MinusTwo
    MinusTwo Member Posts: 16,634
    edited January 2020

    The link BOnnie posted is great. Yes, LE can present even 20 years down the road. Be sure you get a trained & certified LE therapist if you get an appointment.

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  • JoanDavies
    JoanDavies Member Posts: 160
    edited January 2020

    Thank you for the thoughtful reponse!

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  • JoanDavies
    JoanDavies Member Posts: 160
    edited January 2020

    Just a followup to this post... biopsy results came in -- not lymphedema. It is poorly differentiated carcinoma. So here we go again. :(

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  • Binney4
    Binney4 Member Posts: 8,609
    edited January 2020

    Joan, I'm so sorry about this new turn of events. Hopefully you have a great team already in place who you have already trust to carry you through it.

    And just a thought: since cancer in that location can create a blockage of the lymph system, you may in fact be also dealing with the symptoms of lymphedema in that arm. If so, reducing the tumor load as you tackle treatment may very well solve the tingling and tightness problem as well.

    Prayers for smooth sailing as you move forward toward healing!

    Gentle hugs,
    Binney

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  • MinusTwo
    MinusTwo Member Posts: 16,634
    edited January 2020

    Joan - I too am so sorry to hear this. We're with you !!

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