advice
Hi very new here . Had a wide excision and sentinal lymph biopsy on friday. Have slightly puffy skin under arm a bit numb and at back is this normal ? Have been gently massaging arm . any advice b...
Forum Discussion
Hi Miff1
Sorry to see you joining us here - the 'club' that no-one really wants to join!
Numbness under the armpit is pretty normal and can last for weeks or even months, as that is usually where some of the Lymph nodes have been removed. .... Re the puffiness, being so close to your surgery, that would be fairly normal too. But just keep an eye on it - if it becomes red & inflamed it could indicate an infection ... or if you gently press your finger into the puffiness & the 'dent remains' .... see your GP immediately as it could become cellulitis or lymphodemia.
As Moomincorn has asked - if you have a Breast Care Nurse, give them a bell & have a chat about anything that concerns you.
Be gentle with any exercises - as there will be tightness & it takes a little while for the wound to 'heal' .... so make sure you do no lifting or big stretching (including picking up kids, hanging out the laundry etc).
Check out this link too, for a bit of info on the forum - There is HEAPS of info in the link below to help you navigate the blog, including some tools to evaluate your own physical and mental recovery thru your ongoing treatment! xx.
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussions/general-discussion/a-big-welcome-to-all-new-online-network-members-/222737
take care & all the best
thank you x