Itching in lymphedema arm and breast

Royalmama

hello all. I just joined this group. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. Had lumpectomy, full axillary clearance then chemo and rads . I developed lymphedema in my left arm very soon after and have had swelling issues with my affected breast too. My lymphedema has more or less been under control. I had cellulitis three times in about 4.5 years . Just recently I got an infection and was given antibiotics. It was clearly an infection from the blood tests though I didn't have a fever. Now as the infection is pretty much cleared and I finish my antibiotics course, it is the itching that is very new. I've never had itching in my arm and breast before. The swelling is under control ( exercises, compression sleeve, etc) but the stinging and itching are bothering me. I use moisturizer , so no dryness but the skin is tight .

can anybody else relate? Have you had a similar situation?

Moderators

Hi Royalmama,

Sorry to hear what you're going through. There are several types of skin infections -possibly associated with the lymphedema- that may also be causing this? Have you spoken with your physician about that, and possibly creams/ointments that could help?

Please keep us posted.

Royalmama

hi. They seem to think its due to the accumulation of liquid but I am not so sure.

Rah2464

Royalmama hoping someone with more experience will answer your question. What are your doctors saying about the stinging and itching? To me I would be concerned the infection was not entirely clear. My lymphedema can cause nagging discomfort/pain (like a toothache maybe) but I haven't had the itching feeling. However, I have never had a cellulitis issue, just swelling.

Moderators

Royalmama, It seems best to consult with your doctor(s) again, since it's persisting and it's so uncomfortable.

We hope you get this cleared up. Keep us posted!

SoulShine1969

Royalmama-

I’m so sorry that you’re having trouble with lymphedema and infection. I have mild lymphedema in my arm and breast. I have chronic mild to extreme itching particularly on the breast and upper under arm area. It’s a stinging painful itching sensation that is deeper than the skin layer and it’s so annoying. Because you recently had an infection I think you should check back with your doctor just to be safe.

Royalmama

hi thanks for taking the time and responding everybody The doctors seem to think it was due to the skin being taut. I just completed the antibiotics course and the itching has subsided. I'll be monitoring things in the meantime.

I am starting a new set of physiotherapy sessions soon to help with the tightness. I was doing so well before this infection!

Royalmama

soulshine, that is exactly how I would describe the sensation I was having ( still lingering in my breast now) !!

The infection has been treated, so j guess this is as I have been told due to the skin being taut ?? Dunno but as you described, it seems way deeper inside!

MinusTwo

Royalmama - if you haven't been evaluated & measured by a certified, trained lymphadema therapist - it's important to have that done. Many docs don't know much about LE and don't think referrals necessary. LE can appear at any time - even up to 25 years later. Even if you have, maybe it's time for refresher training in LE massage. I try to go back once a year so the LEPT can correct what I may be doing wrong and learn about any new developments. Yes, you can feel lymph issues deep inside. Below is a link that may help with information, and with finding someone in your area who is trained.

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

Royalmama

thanks MinusTwo !

hugz4u

Yes I occasionally get same itch as soulshine.
It comes and goes maybe once a month and is not dry skin. I try not to scratch it as soon as I recognize what it is. Otherwise it will drive you crazy.

It’s definitely under skin and lymphedema involved and mine is not an infection because I’ve had that same itch for a few years

Usually goes away in a day if I don’t start the itch response by scratching.

I think it’s a bit of swelling and fluid and mine is usually in very top part of breasts towards armpit including prophylactic side

I also get itchy from sleeve glue but that’s a chemical reaction. Weird but all glue is made by same company with different names on it I was told. Yet Amoena brand doesn’t itch.

Yup they discontinued here in my country. Can’t win.