Feeling of fullness under arm

Anonymous

Feeling of fullness under arm

awnie1301

So I am over 7 years out from my surgery which included a total lymph node dissection. I had some tightness and cording initially but thankfully no further issues until now.

Recently I have been having the feeling of tightness and/or fullness under my left arm...almost like something is caught under there. I can't really feel anything when I palpate.Of course I am paranoid that it is something nasty but also wondering if it could be lymphedema...which is nasty enough.

I am scheduled to see my GP soon but thought I would ask this knowledgeable group.

Th

LivinLife

I would not pretend to know what that is. I'm in P.T. now for cording issues. I certainly still have that chest and underarm tightness too with some feeling of wad of bills in my armpits.... improving thankfully with P.T. I"m only 7 weeks vs. 7 years out though. I've heard cording does not mean one will develop lymphedema though it is considered a risk factor. Just want to send support - please post after you find out what is going on, OK?

awnie1301

Thank you for your response and your perfect description “a wad of bills under” your armpit. That is exactly how it feels. Makes it easier to describe to the doctor

exbrnxgrl

awnie,

I am no expert but it’s my understanding that you can develop lymphedema many years after surgery. Have you checked out the lymphedema threads? There are some very knowledgeable members who can help you understand what’s going on. I have very mild LE . It’s not visible and doesn’t impede my everyday life but I know that it could flare up tomorrow so I try to follow precautions diligently

ThreeTree

I'm hardly an expert, but I would lean toward lymphedema. I also really like that "wad of bills" analogy. I have it to and am often concerned that it is something more than lymphedema (which I have), but I was recently checked out by the oncologist and the surgeon and neither of them could palpate anything and thought I was doing OK for now. (It's been about 2 years now for me from diagnosis.)

MinusTwo

You need to be referred to a certified, trained LEPT. Most docs don't know much about LE. Many actively pooh-pooh going to a specialist. BUT... Yes it can hit any time. I had a friend who developed LE 25 years out. I doubt your GP will be able to diagnose. Take a look at the link below. There is lots of good information as well as lists of trained lymphedema PTs. Good luck.

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

awnie1301

Thank you all for your responses. Saw my GP and she has ordered an ultrasound. I figure that is a good start for now. It almost feels like the cording is back. I had quite a bit of trouble with that for a year or two after my surgeries. I had been seeing a physio who specialized in lymphedema and post mastectomy treatments so once I know what the ultrasound shows I may make an appointment to see her again.