Is this Lymphedema?

macdebbie

I have a call into my BCS but just curious about this...

I noticed some swelling from my underarm area to the top of the lymph node incision last week. The area is tender, and hasn't gone down despite increased activity so I called the BCS today to see if I could get in on Wed (her non-surgery day).

They said they wanted to see me today, so I saw the PA. She did an ultrasound and said the swollen area I am concerned about is NOT a seroma as I suspected, but "edema". Does that mean that I have Lymphedema? My arm is not swollen at all, just from the underarm to the lymph node incision.

She did discover a fairly large seroma in my breast, but they don't have the type of numbing agent I need (without Epi) so it couldn't be drained. She said that should re-absorb.

I'm more worried about this "edema" now though.

Should I request a referral to a lymphedema PT? She told me I could massage the area myself, but I don't want to cause harm. She also told me to try some warm (not hot) compresses for both the underarm area and the breast area to try and get things moving. I have been doing some gentle exercises with my arm as well.

exbrnxgrl

macdebbie,

Regardless of what is causing your current problem, I think seeing a PT who specializes in lymphedema is always a good idea after surgery. If I were you, I would definitely seek a referral. I have mild LE and I believe that the sessions I had with a PT and learning how to do manual lymphatic drainage have been a major part of keeping it mild.

Rah2464

I concur with exhrnxgrl. Get a referral to a lymphedema PT and that way you are in front of any potential issues. Please update us on what you decide and how it goes.

MinusTwo

My LE is breast and truncal - so yes, do at least get an initial measurement & training in drainage.

Check out this site for more information & references.

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

CarlyVirginia

I am currently waiting a scan for fluid build ip at the bottom left of my right breast,I had two ops for Intermediate DCIS.First one didnt have adequate margins and the second was a tight margin.I had whole breast radiotherapy,My bra distorts the shpe of this fluid filled area no matter how hard I try different Bras.My left breast is and always was larger than the right.After scan I will see a lymphodemas.Is there anything I can do to help while waiting.