Fatigue

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Wised
Wised Member Posts: 351
edited April 2019 in Lymphedema

I've been doing self manual drainage and exercise for almost two months, wearing a sleeve and gauntlet for a few weeks, and going to my LE specialist for massage once a week. I am waiting for my flexi touch... Anyway, I notice a slight difference in the pressure and tenderness in my breast and arm, but can't reach the part of my back that's affected. The reason I am posting is because I am very fatigued and nothing is helping. At some point everyday, I hit a wall and my energy is sapped. Do any of you have experience with this?

As a side note, I'm finding this to be incredibly expensive! Besides my co-pay, the cost of the garments, I'm also looking at getting some help around the house because of the fatigue.

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  • Binney4
    Binney4 Member Posts: 8,609
    edited April 2019

    Wised, you're right on about the costs of lymphedema--bah! There's a bill before Congress to make insurance companies cover our garments. It's called the Lymphedema Treatment Act, and you can help make it happen. More information here:

    https://lymphedematreatmentact.org

    As for the fatigue, there is an element of that with LE, and getting enough sleep at night does help. Arimidex, though, is most likely to blame--definitely felt that way all the time I was on it. I did better on one of the other AIs, so do talk to your oncologist about the fatigue and maybe s/he can help with that.

    A long-handled, soft paint roller might help with reaching your back. It gives a soft touch and can be used directionally fairly easily. I've used it successfully--still do when I'm having a flare. Trying it out in the aisle at the hardware store will get you some puzzled looks, but just smile and remember you'll probably never see those people again!

    Gentle hugs,
    Binney

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  • Wised
    Wised Member Posts: 351
    edited April 2019

    Binney,

    Thank you for the paint roller tip! I can't wait to try some out. I've tried a lotion roller, but it moved too small an area.

    I am outraged at the things LE patients go through to get the medical supplies they need. I shouldn't complain, my insurance covers the durable medical equipment, I just have a high deductable and need to get help around here. I am blaming this fatigue on the lymphedema, but I suspect it's a combination of recovering from radiation, being on anastrozole, and adding the lymphedema to it. I will explain all of this to my Mo the next time I see him. Thank you for responding.

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  • Rah2464
    Rah2464 Member Posts: 1,647
    edited April 2019

    Binney4 I just have to say wow! The creativity and intelligence of the women on this site to adapt and determine ways to help themselves and others. I certainly wouldn't have thought of using a small paint roller. But I get some swelling around my back where I had an initial seroma after surgery. Off to the paint store I go! Thank you!

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