Swelling under the arm

Hi ThinkingPositive! I didn't have TE's, but the swelling is really normal, it waxed and waned for me,sometimes worse than others. I found the most uncomfortable part was where the SN was removed and even now, nearly 2 years down the track, it still feels a little bit weird!

I know it is irritating and I can tell you things in general, will feel so much better, when the drains are gone. Try not to overdo it, that will cause swelling and make the output into the drains remain high. Take a little time for yourself and relax, you've been through a brutal surgery and there is a lot of healing going on, both the tissue and the nerves that have been cut. If you feel there is still a lot of swelling that isn't resolving in the next few week, give your Doctor a call, just to give you peace of mind that all is well.

It is very early days for you, it will get better! 

Hi TP,  for me, this feeling has been the most annoying of all the side effects! I keep telling my primary doctor I feel like I have a football there! It does come and go. You'll notice it more when you are tired.

I'm almost a year out but my doctor sends me for therapy when I ask for it just to relearn some massage techniques to help if some swelling does come up. It's usually me not taking care of myself which means I've overused my arm or not kept it limber. Your doctors are going to give you some tips on this and if they don't be sure to ask! Don't be afraid to tell them you would like to see a physical therapist that specializes in breast cancer to help you learn to work with your arm so you avoid any future issues.

In the meantime, sit back, drink some tea and just chill. It feels weird and yes, that node does make it feel that way. Be good to yourself, think positive. It's hard to do that right now but as you heal it will feel better and you'll learn to deal with it. Take very good care of yourself!!!!! Many hugs....Polly

I am about 10 weeks post BMX with SN removal. I still have this feeling and describe it like there is a golf ball shoved in there. While it's annoying as heck, it's good to know its not uncommon. Feel better soon.