Breast Cancer surgery - the gift that keeps on giving

@Afraser I was in denial for a bit. Tried to convince myself the swelling, heaviness and ache was arthritis until it got a lot worse and much more noticeable. I never knew it was possible to get it so long after surgery. My op was Nov 2015 so just 3 and a bit years ago and I only had sentinel nodes removed so I thought I would never get it. Didn't know it come years and years after surgery and there's still a risk with SNB removal if you've had taxol and radiation to armpit. Learning a lot.

I have a great lymphoedema specialist. Getting my compression sleeve and glove tomorrow. Looking forward to getting rid of the ache and swelling. Not sure how I am going to go with the sleeve when I still have so many hot flushes.

@SoldierCrab If I did, I can't remember  :/

That's a buger, @nadi - you've been thru enough!  2 buddies wear a compression sleeve to help theirs - flesh covered, so really not too noticeable unless up close.  One in particular is still very active outdoors & in her kayak, fishing.  She is currently driving around Aussie, on her own!  I hope you are able to find something to deal with it, that helps you  xxx   take care

Miserable thing about lymphoedema is that it can occur up to 15 years after surgery! My left arm is affected - my hand was initially affected but only because of gravity, a compression. sleeve and hand got my fingers back to normal quite quickly.  They don't sound enjoyable but I have become very accustomed to them and they keep my arm very stable. No
pain, no heavy feeling, no limits on what I can do, no infections bar one (exercise caution with manicures on the affected limb!). Best wishes.

Hello @Nadi I am sorry to hear that you have developed lymphoedema and as the ladies have mentioned with good care it can be managed well.
The Australasian Lymphology Association is a useful website with information and access to accredited practitioners 
https://www.lymphoedema.org.au/
BCNA also has a fact sheet that you might find helpful too
https://www.bcna.org.au/media/6868/bcna-fact-sheet-lymphoedema-jul-2018.pdf
Dont hesitate to call the BCNA Helpline to speak to a cancer nurse for support.

Hello @Nadi.  My friend has acupuncture for her lymphoedema. They do not needle anywhere near her surgery side but seem to have got the lymphatic system working better and the sessions last 3-4 weeks.  As she has other medical issues she is pleased to report they have also had vast improvement.  Worth a go, I say.  I have had massage but not all therapists are trained in that.  It is time consuming and expensive.  Anne

Mine isn't terrible, but it is present enough that I have to wear a sleeve for a couple of weeks every few months. For me, the pool and yoga make all the difference. 45 minutes of frantic treading water and arm churning during a deep water aqua aerobics class can take that horrible heavy feeling away

Oh bugger!
I don't have lymphedema as such but I occasionally get a tightness in the sternum and a build up of fluid in my left arm. The sarcastic name is tuck shop arms. Anyhow I have a lymphatic drainage massage about 3 maybe 4 times per year.
Recently I had surgery requiring drainage tube and it was only in  for about 14 hours. I believe it was my maintenance, I had a lymphatic drainage massage 48 hours prior to surgery.  The Anaesthetist gave me a look like I was whacky but I was pleased as it paid off!
Wishing you all the best and mormality
Sending you a virtual hug x

@iserbrown I know, right??? My reaction was WTF?  Sigh.... the specialist thinks that maybe my whole lymph system got out of whack following my major stomach surgery. Not sure why this would have started my arm off, but it is what it is I guess. 

Just watched the BCNA webcast on it. Wish I had been more vigilant with a few things. This definitely all started after two cuts a month apart on my arm.

Geez Nadi who'd thought after all this time! Lots of useful information on the forum

Take care