fingernail problem

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Blinkie
Blinkie Member Posts: 169
edited October 2016 in Lymphedema

I have not been diagnosed with lymphedema and am aware that I have a chance (about 20%?) of getting it. I did not have lymph nodes removed but had radiation of the armpit.

I do have, however, a chronic problem caused by 'pincer nails.' This means my nails are curly. They tend to become ingrown. The cuticles of two of my fingers often get infected. I work with a manicurist who understands what is happening and this is helping. Also, when I start to feel pain in my finger, I can soak it in really, really hot water and this usually stops the infection. If not, I use a topical antibacterial. If it gets bad I can have surgery. (Not sure what exactly they do.)

I bet you can see a problem here, eh? Ack! I have yet to discuss this with my medical oncologist; I'll do that soon. But I'm wondering if anyone with lymphedema has experience with something similar - with a preexisting condition that caused infection. Perhaps I should have surgery on the two fingers now? Or perhaps that would bring lymphedema on?

I realize I might be supremely lucky and never develop lymphedema. I've lost my security though; now I think I will always have bad luck and get everything. I don't want to be focused on the negative, but I do want to prepare in every way I can for what might be in my future. Any suggestions?

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  • Binney4
    Binney4 Member Posts: 8,609
    edited October 2016

    Hi, Blinkie,

    You're smart to be thinking ahead--that's not negative thinking, that's just good sense. Best bet is to get any one of your doctors to write a referral to a well-qualified lymphedema therapist for evaluation. S/he can take baseline arm measurements for future reference, suggest personalized risk-reduction tips and if necessary fit you for a compression sleeve and glove (or gauntlet) to use prophylacticly when doing heavy work, exercising or traveling. Here's how to find a trained lymphedema therapist near you:

    http://www.stepup-speakout.org/Finding_a_Qualified...

    Here's hoping you'll never have to join our "swell" sisterhood! Let us know what you discover.

    Be well,
    Binney

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  • Blinkie
    Blinkie Member Posts: 169
    edited October 2016

    Binney4 - Thanks for the info. Really appreciate your answering.

    Haha - "swell sisterhood." Very good.

    I watched the LE&RN video & I've called my clinic to find out what qualifications their therapists have. Don't know yet - had to leave a message. Meanwhile I'll keep trying to learn . . . .

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  • Blinkie
    Blinkie Member Posts: 169
    edited October 2016

    Today I spoke with someone in the department that helps lymphedema patients. They are all physical or occupational therapists and none seem to have the specialized certifications in lymphedema. I'm going to call my insurance company to see what my options are for going somewhere else. There is a physical therapist who also has a LANA certification at a hospital about 25 miles away (which is closer than my clinic.) If nothing else I can travel to the city to find someone.

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