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New Lymphedema caused by breast radiation

Posted by newbie475 @newbie475, 5 days ago

Hi,
After radiation for my left cancer breast ( following excision surgery), I started experiencing heaviness, tremendous increase in pain, and movement which got worse. I had to complain to oncologist/breast surgeon etc… for a long time, finally after suffering for 3 1/2 months, they took me seriously and wrote me a script for Lymphedema PTMassage.
1) did anyone else have to beg their doctors for solutions?
2) last night was my first night after my first PT, where he taped up my left breast higher, and wrapped compression bandage around my chest… I woke up at 2am, sure I had wet the bed with lots of fluid ( I thought was pee)… question: is this normal?
3) how long will it take to resolve?
4) any suggestions would be greatly appreciated
Thank you so much

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sandy8043 | @sandy8043 | 4 days ago

You may wanna look at Kelli at Cancerrehabpt.com. She also has several YouTube videos on lymphedema for breast cancer recovery. I used her videos for lymphedema from my head and neck cancer. She helped me a lot. I think managing lymphedema is something most doctors even some surgeons are not familiar with. My Mayo surgeon was very well versed in lymphedema and prescribed massage right off the bat. Managing lymphedema is not easy but it certainly CAN reduce pain and speed healing. I think you are on your way to better days.

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newbie475 | @newbie475 | 4 days ago

Sandy, thank you for your reply, you are very kind. And I will take a look at Kelli’s YouTube videos.

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jlimb | @jlimb | 9 hours ago

Lymphedema 4 years post lumpectomy and radiation. (breast/chest wall). So very grateful for the cancer center rehab PT who was great and helped not only bring relief but who taught exercises and self management skills to continue long term at home. I was a bit surprised,when I learned that, yes, lymphedema can appear even some time after bc treatment/radiation.

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newbie475 | @newbie475 | 8 hours ago
In reply to @jlimb "Lymphedema 4 years post lumpectomy and radiation. (breast/chest wall). So very grateful for the cancer center..." + (show)
Profile picture for jlimb @jlimb

Lymphedema 4 years post lumpectomy and radiation. (breast/chest wall). So very grateful for the cancer center rehab PT who was great and helped not only bring relief but who taught exercises and self management skills to continue long term at home. I was a bit surprised,when I learned that, yes, lymphedema can appear even some time after bc treatment/radiation.

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@jlimb , thank you.
That makes sense. How long have you had lymphedema now? And what’s your routine for managing it?
Appreciate your input.

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