Hello, It is nine months since removal of my cancerous left breast, and 39 lymph glands. About 3 months ago I noticed the swelling beginning in my left arm. I know it is lymphodemia, and as I do not see any of my treating doctors for another month, (my GP said nothing could be done about it, I would just have to live with it) I wondered if there was anything I could do to help myself. The whole arm and hand, is very swollen and painful and seems to get worse every day. It feel as though the skin will split if it does not stop.
I have thought about having massage to try to relieve it, but am worried in case that makes it worse. Thanks
Jill
I have thought about having massage to try to relieve it, but am worried in case that makes it worse. Thanks
Jill
Jill, I am so sorry to that you had to have a masectomy and even more sorry to here of you swollen arm.
The only thing I can suggest is to try the compression machines. I don't know the name of them but they are a pnumatic pump. You put your arm in a sleeve and the sleeve inflates and graduates pressure up your arm to help temperarly reduce the swelling. Also there is a compression stocking availble to help keep the swelling to a min. They are available at your medical supply store and covered by most insurance companine when you have a letter of medical nessessity and a RX.
I would strongly suggest for you to attend cancer society meetings in your local area. You should not go through this alone. Someone that is in the same boat as you may be able to help you cope with your painful situation.
God Bless
The only thing I can suggest is to try the compression machines. I don't know the name of them but they are a pnumatic pump. You put your arm in a sleeve and the sleeve inflates and graduates pressure up your arm to help temperarly reduce the swelling. Also there is a compression stocking availble to help keep the swelling to a min. They are available at your medical supply store and covered by most insurance companine when you have a letter of medical nessessity and a RX.
I would strongly suggest for you to attend cancer society meetings in your local area. You should not go through this alone. Someone that is in the same boat as you may be able to help you cope with your painful situation.
God Bless