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How long should I expect pain in armpit after removal of lymph nodes?

Posted by meomurian @meomurian, Nov 18, 2023

I had a mastectomy with removal of three lymph nodes 8 weeks ago and am still feeling pain in my armpit, where they were removed. Is this normal and how long should I expect to feel pain?

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lifetraveler | @lifetraveler | Oct 4 7:42am
In reply to @meeshodge "I am 6 weeks post op (DMX AFC with 3 sentinel nodes removed form both sides)...." + (show)
@meeshodge

I am 6 weeks post op (DMX AFC with 3 sentinel nodes removed form both sides). My swelling had gone down at week 4, but I started back to work then and now swelling and discomfort is back. And I have a desk job. I guess it is the repetitive movement of my arms.

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Hi! @ meeshodge:

I truly admire your strength and diligent work attitude. But please call your care team to discuss the swelling and discomfort in your armpit or your surgical site, hopefully they'll recommend a trained professional such as: a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT), a physical or occupational therapist trained to treat lymphedema to help you resolve the swelling and pain. Pray for you to take great care of yourself with smooth sailing ahead.

Best luck to you all!

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LisaY1 | @lisay1 | Oct 5 9:30am
In reply to @karen1103 "2 years later and armpit is still numb and somewhat painful." + (show)
@karen1103

2 years later and armpit is still numb and somewhat painful.

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Yes, I can relate to that. Mine was three years ago but the good thing is we are still here. Wishing you the best!

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maymore | @maymore | Oct 5 11:00am
In reply to @tonysmom "My Dr. did'nt seemed concerned with my seroma. She got good margins. Now I'm off to..." + (show)
@tonysmom

My Dr. did'nt seemed concerned with my seroma. She got good margins. Now I'm off to see oncologist for radiation. I had 2 lumps, and 6 lymph nodes removed. I'm76. Do I really need radiation'. what does an oncotype report look like.I'm sure I had one but can't recognize it on any of my paperwork.

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I think what is most important to know is the stage and the grade of your tumor. This information will help you decide whether you should have radiation or not. I had stage one and grade one tumor with good margins during surgery. The lymph node was clear. My doctor directed me to several papers that said I was good to go without radiation because of my age and those other parameters.

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1 reply
tonysmom | @tonysmom | Oct 5 1:03pm
In reply to @maymore "I think what is most important to know is the stage and the grade of your..." + (show)
@maymore

I think what is most important to know is the stage and the grade of your tumor. This information will help you decide whether you should have radiation or not. I had stage one and grade one tumor with good margins during surgery. The lymph node was clear. My doctor directed me to several papers that said I was good to go without radiation because of my age and those other parameters.

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how old are you. I'm 76.

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maymore | @maymore | Oct 5 2:32pm
In reply to @tonysmom "how old are you. I'm 76." + (show)
@tonysmom

how old are you. I'm 76.

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I was 70 when diagnosed.

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lilacs777 | @lilacs777 | 1 day ago

Armpit was the longest part to feel 'normal' again, its just so sensitive in that area. I thought I was going to have a big lump there forever but it does settle down and go away, just takes time. Physical therapy / range of motion exercises can help.

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mermaid7272 | @mermaid7272 | 4 hours ago

I had lymph nodes under arm and upper chest removed for Melanoma, many, many years ago. After initial surgery pain, all that remained was numbness and it still is numb after many years. It is still hard to shave under my arm!

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