could this be LE?

Yes it can be LE, you have had lymph nodes removed.  LE isn't just visable swelling, but swelling of lymph nodes, heaviness, & possibly pain.  The only way to know for sure is to see a LE therapist.  My LE arm is actually smaller than the non LE arm.  I went to an LE therapist and learned how to do the manual lymph drain.  This has helped a lot.  You will need a doctor referal & not all LE therapist are the same.

mrsnjband my LE arm is smaller than my non LE arm too. Granted I'm not totally convinced I don't have the start of LE in my "good" arm where only 4 nodes were taken. I have more cording on that side.

MicheleS - My BS blew me off when I mentioned swelling in my fingers.  My PS said, "Well, if you have it, it's very minor."  That was incredibly reassuring!   

I finally called my GP who ordered an ultrasound of my arm to make sure it wasn't a blood clot.  And then I FINALLY got in to see an LE therapist.  She said what was said above.  That the feeling of heaviness was a sign that I had it.  Over time, she saw the difference in my fingers and she confirmed that I did have it.  It's so incredibly frustrating that doctors don't believe us!  But we know our body best.  You need to see a certified LE therapist.  She can at least show you some exercise that will help, show you to do the manual lymph drainage.  Keep us posted!

Michele,

the LE therapist makes the diagnosis--most physicians don't know how to diagnose LE.And since there's no one definition of what constitutes lymphedema--it can get complex, but good LE therapists can feel it.

Like the women above, my LE arm is now smaller than my good arm--but my swelling is primarily in my hand and forearm. I did have one LE therapist (well trained) say: "You have swelling, but it's NOT LE"--because I didn't have the 2 cm arm difference. My great LE therapist, will work on me and mutter, "Of course you have LE..." 

Here's a good article for your doctors on subtle changes--written by a great British reseracher, AW Stanton--it's link to the full article: "Diagnosing Lymphedema in the Arm"

My favorite part of this article, is that it says that you don't have to have measurable swelling, just subtle changes--skin changes, loss of sharpness of tendons/bones.

 http://britishjournaloflymphoedema.com/journal/0101_arm.pdf

When you do get to a LE therapist, there are position papers from the NLN (National Lymphedema Network) on therapy and proper training of a LE therapist.

http://www.lymphnet.org/lymphedemaFAQs/positionPapers.htm

Kira

Both my LE specialist (MD) and LE therapist are listed on (trained) the LANA (lymphology Association of North America): http://www.clt-lana.org/therapists/default.asp

Michele, LANA is a test that LE can take--it shows dedication, and education--it is just a written exam.

There are great therapists who are LANA certified, great ones who are not, and unfortunately LE therapists who aren't as good who passed the exam. It doesn't assess clinical skills, nor does the LANA board supervise the LANA certified therapists. It's a good step in the right direction, but it's not like a board of licensure for professionals.

When you get a referral, make sure the therapist is well trained, and LANA certification is a very good sign.

My LE therapist is LANA certified, and I've met a couple who are who aren't up to her standard of care, unfortunately. Good to know the credentials of anyone who treats you, though.

Kira

Michele, After my hysterectomy in October, I had the exact same symptoms you did...plus back spasms.  I was so frustrated as I couldn't get anyone to listen to me.  I saw a physical therapists trained in lymphedema and she was wonderful!  I now wear a sleeve and a snug cami, do MLD a few times a week and symptoms greatly improved.  She diagnosed mine as truncal lymphedema.  My left breast area still looks more 'full' than the breast, but every thing else has improved.  Good luck and if you have any specific questions, just send me an email. 

Connie, it doesn't very often, fortunately. But we have had women here before with this outcome from a mammo.

There's no such thing as having "a little LE." That's like being "a little pregnant." Early stage LE is LE, and untreated it will progress, not necessarily with more swelling but with changes to the tissues inside. The redness is likely an indication of inflammation in the breast, a result of early stage LE. Getting good help from a well-qualified LE therapist will help reduce both the swelling and the inflammation, but in the meantime be alert to any new redness, pain, itching, or warmth to the touch and get help quickly if those develop. (I sent you a PM.)

Gentle hugs!
Binney

Connie, LE is a chronic condition. But the good news is you can control it. It's a lot to get your mind around at first, but it gets better -- honest!

Be well!
Binney

Hi ladies,

I saw my GYN on tuesday, he said that he did not think it's LE. unfortunately, after reading a lot, I disagree. Will go see the BS on Monday. I had a Lumbar epidural injection sched for tomorrow. BUT the GYN said that I have a vaginal infection (yet ANOTHER infection) and put me on 4 Flagyl all one dose and an AntiB cream. So, now I can't get the epidural cause they won't do it if you are on antiBiotics!!!!!!!!!!!   CURSES!  I've been trying to get a shot in my lumbar for TWO years. To relieve lower back pain and now it's taking over my upper legs. DRAT. it's like the universe doesn't want me to have an epidural because everytime I get close to actually doing it something like this infection happens or my insurance changed and the co-pay was $1,000.00. FOR ONE SHOT! Now, I can do it but now I can't cause of infection.

Does anyone else have multiple infections?  That's what scares me about the swollen boob. If it is, and we all suspect that it is LE, it puts me AT RISK for infection?!?!   Holy crapola! Like I need another risk that I have no control over.

Have to see BS. at least this time. Maybe I can get a new one this year. It's not that big a town but there are two different hospitals and 2 CA clinics. I know they all know each other and current BS is top of her group. But we graduated high school together and I wasn't fond of her then. HA But she's the only other one I can get in to see soon, so be it.

I'm still scared to hear her say it's LE.

Connie