Forum Discussion

holidaygirl's avatar
holidaygirl
Member
12 years ago

Wondering whether I have Lymphodema

Hi Everyone, I had a mastectomy of the left breast in 2011. Never had an any issues and life was going along really well. Just recently I came back from a weekend of camping and thought I had just strained my left arm from quite a lot of physical work while camping, but now I'm concerned I may have the beginnings of Lymphodema. My forearm is slightly swollen and the arm feels tight when I try to stretch it. When I press on my arm it feels like it's bruised. Wondering if anyone can enlighten me on this and whether it is worthwhile getting it checked out. I could have been bitten or stung by something, which is what I'm hoping. Looking forward to hearing from anyone who may have gone through this. Thanks.

4 Replies

  • Julia44's avatar
    Julia44
    Member
    12 years ago

    Hi, I found the hospital Occupational therapists who specialise in this to be great.  I went to RPAH Sydney.  It takes a long time to get in though, so organise appointment asap.  Mine was free as I had operation there, I think,

    Julia

  • mum2jj's avatar
    mum2jj
    Member
    12 years ago
    Yes you should definitely check it out. I have lymphedema and the sooner you get on to it, the better the outcome. Just be careful as some Drs don't have great knowledge of lymphedema. The most helpful person I saw was an occupational therapist who specialized in oncology. Do you still have access to a breast care nurse? They will point you in the right direction. If not your GP is a good starting point. Good luck. Paula
  • mum2jj's avatar
    mum2jj
    Member
    12 years ago
    Yes you should definitely check it out. I have lymphedema and the sooner you get on to it, the better the outcome. Just be careful as some Drs don't have great knowledge of lymphedema. The most helpful person I saw was an occupational therapist who specialized in oncology. Do you still have access to a breast care nurse? They will point you in the right direction. If not your GP is a good starting point. Good luck. Paula