I believe that you will. If you have had lymph nodes involved and removed then your ability to drain fluids from your arm is compromised. In addition to lymphodema, I believe that you also will have higher fisk of infection in the arm that had lymph nodes remove because the fluids in the arm allow immune cells to travel where they are needed.

I personally wear my compression sleeve whenever I fly. For an hour before the flight and an hour afterwards (as per my PT's instructions).

I have had minimal issues with swelling, sometimes my arm just aches and I do some of the massage that she taught me for if/when I had issues.

You CAN lift weights and heavy objects with your arms. They have actually proven that lifting weights can HELP avoid long term complications with lymphedema. It's just that you have to start with small weights on that arm and work your way up to moderately heavy things. So if you want to carry around your 22 lb grandchild, just hit the gym regularly to keep your arms toned :)

If you have had lymph nodes removed or radiation to your axilla (armpit) you are at risk for lymphedema. Everyone's lymphatic system works differently so you could have had 30 nodes removed and never have an issue, or have 2 removed and get lymphedema. I would recommend reading the risk reduction paper on the National Lymphedema Networks's website (http://www.lymphnet.org/pdfDocs/nlnriskreductio...) to learn more about it. I would also recommend avoiding having needle sticks or blood pressure taken on that side.

Adena is correct, you are at a higher risk for infections in that arm. If you get a cut or bug bite on that side make sure you watch it for a red rash or radiating heat that could indicate an infection. If you see signs of infection please go to the emergency room for IV antibiotics.

@A MyBCTeam Member, I can agree with you. I have a gauntlet, too, but I rarely wear it. My hand usually has only very minimal swelling, but some days it aches badly.
I think maybe what we have now is something called the new normal for us. We just have to learn to live with what we have. When I consider the alternative, I don't mind the ways things are . . . I'm just happy to be alive and healthy (except for a swollen arm).

Mentioned Users

A MyBCTea...

You can purchase a lymphedema sleeve at your local medical supply or online, lymphadivas has some really pretty ones. Make sure you get the correct compression too, I believe there are 20-30 mmHg and 30-40 mmHg's. The lower compression is more for mild to moderate lymphedema and the higher compression is for more severe lymphedema. I still get some swelling with the compression sleeve, but it alleviates a lot of the pain associated with lymphedema. Most of the time your insurance company will pay for your lymphedema sleeve, as long as it was prescribed by a physician. Mine pays for 2 per year. I hope this helps and best of luck! Hugs, Lisa