Lymph node dissection: What helps prevent & manage Lymphedema?

Posted by journey99 @journey99, May 17, 2023

Looking for how to manage axillary lymph node dissection to manage, control, prevent lymphedema.
Please share advice or experiences.

Thank you in advance.

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My oncology surgeon said it’s important to get properly fitted for a compression sleeve, so I consulted a physical therapist certified in lymphedema therapy (PT, CLT) before my lymph node dissection. The PT measured me to establish a baseline and recommend the correct size and amount of compression. I purchase my sleeves from lymphedemaproducts.com. They sell medical grade products and have a selection of brands. I prefer lympheDIVA brand because they have fun colors and patterns. I also consulted with a doctor specializing in lymphatic system and she taught me lymph self-fluid clearance. So far, I do not have any signs or symptoms of lymphedema!

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@gina5009

Sorry I do not, but I will try to find one for you
Gina5009

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Thank you 😊

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Sorry I do not, but I will try to find one for you
Gina5009

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@gina5009

Believe it or not I have bought from Walmart and online from TEMU. Com. They are probably the least expensive and they do come in sizes.
GINA5009

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Do you have a photo of what they look like? Thanks 😊

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@leolion811

Amazon or somewhere else?

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Believe it or not I have bought from Walmart and online from TEMU. Com. They are probably the least expensive and they do come in sizes.
GINA5009

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@gina5009

I have found compression gloves to be miracle workers. I get the ones with the open finger tips so I can work. I have been very fortunate, I had 14 lymph glands removed, and almost no lymph edema until I broke my right shoulder. I do the massage as instructed by Clinic and find this to be of some help. Keep the arm elevated as much as possible when you are sitting.
Gina 5009

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Amazon or somewhere else?

REPLY

I have found compression gloves to be miracle workers. I get the ones with the open finger tips so I can work. I have been very fortunate, I had 14 lymph glands removed, and almost no lymph edema until I broke my right shoulder. I do the massage as instructed by Clinic and find this to be of some help. Keep the arm elevated as much as possible when you are sitting.
Gina 5009

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@sugarbear0

@gail2206 Thank you for sharing that! Great idea; I’ll order one at Amazon.

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Just remember the ball needs to be fairly soft. I hope it works for you!

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@gail2206

I ended up with lymphedema in both breasts after my bilateral mastectomy. My breast cancer nurse gave me a soft foam ball to help drain the lymph fluid. I place the ball under each armpit and bend my elbow towards my chest, then lower my arm to gently squeeze the ball. Repeat eight times on each side. This gives me instant relief. I hope it works for you.

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@gail2206 Thank you for sharing that! Great idea; I’ll order one at Amazon.

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@jpnnobx

I've got lymphedema but not from surgery or radiation. I developed it a few months after BC diagnosis. It stunned the oncologist. Since you don't have it now, keep the lymph flowing in your body with daily dry brushing, keep hydrated and move either with rebounding, walking, etc. Another thing which is harder for me is switch between cold and hot showers. At the end of your shower turn on cold water for 30 sec up to 2 min and then switch to hot (warmer water) for the same time and alternate between the 2 for a couple of sessions. I now pump my arm every day and have to wear a compression sleeve and, of course, I've been told there is no cure for it. Good luck and keep things moving!

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I went to Physical Therapist as soon as my one arm is bigger than another. She mostly massaged my arm and chest. Now lymphedema is gone. My PT told me the key is to seek treatment early. Hope it’s not too late for you yet. Good luck!

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