I think I messed up...?

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Turtletots
Turtletots Member Posts: 35
edited June 2014 in Lymphedema

I had DCIS, BRCA2 positive, double mastectomy in April 2010, sentinal node biopsy left side. Ever since then my rings have been tight on that side but i have also gained a bunch of weight.

Fast forward to last tuesday, when I had my exchange surgery from TEs to implants. I didn't even think to not let them take my bloodpressure on the left side. i remember it hurting, like the cuff was way too tight. I was extremely anxious about the surgery so I didn't say anything.

Since the surgery I have had a pain under my left arm, it feels like it's swollen but doesn't look like it, and the pain radiates from my armpit down to my fingers at times. Also from my shoulder. I don't see a ton of swelling but my rings still won't fit. Am I in trouble here? Any way to prevent lymphedema at this point? It's pretty painful.

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  • DiDel
    DiDel Member Posts: 1,329
    edited April 2012

    I would consult with your BS to refer you to a LE therapist/Specialist for an evaluation. I had some cording before my exchange and saw a therapist who measured me and said it was always a good idea for an initial evaluation. Plus they can recommend some stretching massaging and other exercises for you to do if you do have LE.

    Good luck

    DIane

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  • camillegal
    camillegal Member Posts: 16,882
    edited April 2012

    Turtletots, I'm sure u'll get good advice here, but if something bothers u, call u'r Dr. and explain exactly what u said. They expect calls so u'll feel better after u talk to him/her.

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  • hugz4u
    hugz4u Member Posts: 2,781
    edited April 2012

    Go on the website stepup-speakout.org. I think some girls on this board created the wonderful site. It will tell you everything you need to know while you are waiting for the experts to come and help you on this thread.  You need to see a qualified LE therapist. I think the website I gave you will tell you how to pick one out. 

     Meanwhile, I am not sure you have LE but I would elevate your arm above your heart and rest it. Drink lots of water. Do not lift anything more than a few pounds. Raise your arm above your head and pump your fist slowly for about 25-30 times a few times a day. Stop if you are tiring out. Baby your arm until you are evaluated. 

    Your Doctor may never diagnose or admit that you have LE as most Doctors think your arm has to be balloon size to have LE.  If you have  tiredness,heaviness or pain or weird feelings without swelling this could be  early LE stage.

    Just go see the LE therapist in case you have  it. I hope not but it is better to be safe than sorry as you have better control at an earlier stage.

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  • Turtletots
    Turtletots Member Posts: 35
    edited April 2012

    Thanks. I emailed my PS to get a referral. I hope she takes it seriously. I slept last night with my left arm elevated and it didn't hurt as badly, but now that I'm up and around it hurts again. My fingers are a little tingly too. I am wondering if it is shoulder related though, I have always had problems with my shoulders since I got the TEs placed--lots of pain, but usually on the right side. So this perplexes me. We'll see how it goes with the LE specialist. Hopefully I can get into one soon.

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