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Can you get lymphedema if you only had sentinel node removed?
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Dec 9, 2023 | Replies (48)Comment receiving replies
Everyone....... If you re getting Covid Vaccines or boosters......no matter your Lymphedema status, if you've had sentinal or node surgery, ask for the vaccine in your hip! I didn't and every shot (but the final booster) I got considerable swelling in my lymphedema arm. The vaccine and all MRNA type vaccines cause inflammation (hence....a wait for mammograms due to false positive breast cancer findings). My fourth shot in my hip....no arm swelling! Hugs to all.
Replies to "Everyone....... If you re getting Covid Vaccines or boosters......no matter your Lymphedema status, if you've had..."
I had sentinel node biopsies in the pelvic region. I've had two vaccinations and two boosters all in my upper arm and did not get lymphedema. Maybe it depends on where the lymph nodes were biopsied?
cindylb...
That is such a good idea. I wish I had thought of that before I received both my 5th covid vaccine and my high dose flu shot in the same arm. My arm was sore for 3 days.
I have had full breast radiation so I stay away from the radiation side for vaccines, blood draws and blood pressure checks.
Thanks.... I will remember your suggestion.
Katrina
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I'd also switch sides to be safe(r). I was told to never again have blood pressure or blood taken or any vaccinations given on my left arm to be extra cautious. And that was after a lumpectomy for a Stage 1A small tumor and clear sentinel lymph node biopsy on the left breast.
I was also told that the risk of lymphedema is low after a sentinel lymph node excision but it's not zero and lymphedema can occur at any time, even years after the surgery. Having seen what a friend went through with lymphedema, I'm very careful to follow the suggestions and extra protective of my left arm in the hopes that I never develop it. That includes keeping an eye on any insect bites or minor cuts, etc.