More pain, More worries.

Ardychan
Ardychan Member Posts: 36
edited June 2014 in IDC (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma)

Hello All,

 It's been 11 days since my surgery and I am still in pain!  Apparently, there has been some fluid buildup near where the lymph nodes were removed.  My underarm was as hard as a rock.  So the doctor drained it and huge syringe of fluid came out.  So the pressure is gone, but it still hurts like crazy!  Percocet to the rescue.

I'm also very nervous because they still can't come to a conclusion about a tumor that was found on my spine.  It is too small to biopsy.  So I go for another PET scan on Friday.  I am supposed to be resting and recuperating, but I have been running around for so many more tests and appointments, that I have barely been home.  I needed nap today!  So now I am grouchy and scared.  Not a good comination.   

 Sorry for the negativity, but it has been a painful day.  I'm scared I'm going to need Chemo, and that would probably mean I would not be able to work, as I work with kids.  Whah! 

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  • chrissyb
    chrissyb Member Posts: 16,818
    edited November 2011

    Ardychan, so sorry to hear of the dramas you are going through.  The build up of fluid is a fairly common thing so don't panic with that one, just be aware and have it drained if needed.  Keeping my fingers crossed that the spot on you spine is nothing.......good luck with the PET.

    Love n hugs.  Chrissy

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  • Annessister
    Annessister Member Posts: 13
    edited December 2011

    Don't worry about being able to work if you need chemo. I worked through all eight rounds and I also work with children. I would get treatment on Wednesday- took that day off. Then be Friday night I'd crash and sleep. Working helped me focus on something other then my health. Really good to keep busy. Don't be afraid of chemo- I thought of it as insurance against future problems. The drugs are good and the side effects were tolerable. My biggest struggle was explaining to students where my hair went. Best of luck, you can do anything

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  • zap
    zap Member Posts: 2,017
    edited December 2011

    You need to do what is best for you, but I never stopped work through chemo and I am a teacher.  I think it depends on how long you have been with kids (are you immune to most bugs?), how old they are and how you feel.  I went for infusions on Thursdays (after school) and still  felt okay on Friday so worked.  Felt ill on Saturday, Sunday and somewhat on Monday...and then went back to school on Tuesday and felt okay.  I never got "sick" with what kids carry the whole time I did the chemo.  Again, you need to do what works for you.  I had been a long time (now retired) so I am immune to most bugs. Good luck!

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  • Ardychan
    Ardychan Member Posts: 36
    edited December 2011

    UPDATE:  So they finally decided that the growth on my spine was a "bone island' and not Cancer!  Yah!  I have still had lots of problems from the surgery:  Fluid build up and I had a delayed hypersenstitvity to the prep used during surgery.  The day after they first drained me, I got a huge rash and what looked like burn marks around the incision and under the breasts.  I have had to see a specialist and get steroid shots this past two weeks.

     Things are clearing up, but I  am still in pain.  There seems to be fluid build up around my ribs?

    Tuesday is when I find out the results of the Oncotype test.  Nervous about that.  I'm in a unique situation with work:  While I am nostly immune to kid's illnesses,  I am a 1:1 Aide to a child with disabilities.  She cannot, herself, understand about germs.  Plus this is a very physical job: lots of walking, changing positions, helping the student get from one place to another, and carrying supplies at all times.  I had to leave work for a day last week because I couldn't handle it.  I don't know if I would be allowed to take a day off per week, as this would be very hard on the student, who needs continuity.

    But I will do whatever it takes to keep the big C away!  

    Thanks for listening. 

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  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited December 2011

    Ardychan, thank you for the update - you've been through a so much! Please keep us posted on your Oncotype test; we're rooting for you.

    Judith and the Mods

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