Infection 5 days after lumpectomy

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Kitchenella
Kitchenella Member Posts: 279
edited June 2014 in Lymphedema

Hi, I developed an infection in my breast 5 days after my lumpectomy.  Was started on Augmentin.  The pain has decreased but I have swelling on the right side of my breast under my arm that extends a bit to my back.  Also the upper arm above the elbow on the underside ( where the 'old lady flab' is) is tender.  Could this be LE?  I've been on antibiotics now for 5 days and the swelling is still there.  I see my doc. on Tuesday but was just wondering if this could be LE.  It is very painful.  Like a bad bruise.

PEggy 

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  • debbie6122
    debbie6122 Member Posts: 5,161
    edited December 2011

    Hi peggy, welcome-

    Sorry you are in pain. I had pain in my arm and back area after my MX for quite awhile after surgery, I think but not sure, it was also from the lymph nodes being taken out. did you have nodes removed?

    I didnt have LE so cant really comment on that, did they give you excercises to do for that? They have a thread here on LE that is really helpful just type in LE in the search engine on the right hand side and it will give you different threads to click on, the ladies here are very helpful and they may be able to tell you more than I on that subject.

    I would call your MO (Medical Oncologist) tomorrow and let them know the pain and swelling you are still having, it's probably from your surgery still since you just have recently had it done, but its always good to have it checked out.

    Glad you joined us but sorry you are here, but you will get lots of great info and support here. Please keep us posted.

    Hugs,

    Debbie

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  • Kitchenella
    Kitchenella Member Posts: 279
    edited December 2011

    Thank you Debbie.  Yes I did have nodes removed.  I have read some on LE and I'm beginning to think it is just normal post surgery swelling.  I see my Doctor on Tuesday.

    Peggy 

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  • Leah_S
    Leah_S Member Posts: 8,458
    edited December 2011

    Hello Peggy, I'm sorry you had to find your way here.

    I had a post-op infection following unimast. There was some local swelling (under my arm) but not in the area of the mast. I can't be sure there was no swelling on my upper arm since the back part of it was numb (and remained pretty much with no feeling for 2+ years) and I have since developed mild LE there.

    How long have you been on the Augmentin? It usually takes a couple of days until you feel better. If you still have swelling and pain after taking it for a few days it would be a good idea to call your BS.

    Best of luck with this.

    Leah

    edited to add: sent you a PM

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  • kira66715
    kira66715 Member Posts: 4,681
    edited December 2011

    Peggy, this is a post operative infection and post op swelling, but unfortunately, infections are hard on lymphatics. So, when this all settles down, it would be a good idea to see a lymphedema therapist for a full evaluation and instructions on how to prevent lymphedema.

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

    For now, to decrease swelling: stay really well hydrated, elevate your arm on pillows when you're resting, you can make a fist periodically to move fluid out of the arm (you can raise your arm if you want to when you make a fist) and do deep breathing periodically.

    Please let us know how you're doing.

    Kira 

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  • Kitchenella
    Kitchenella Member Posts: 279
    edited December 2011

    Thank you everyone.  I'm doing much better.  I'm at the itchy stage now.  

    Peggy 

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  • debbie6122
    debbie6122 Member Posts: 5,161
    edited December 2011

    Peggy- Thanks for checking in and letting us know how you are doing, glad you are feeling much better, i remember the itching, (arghhh!) It will get better.

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