Met with OT, I do not have lymphedema!!! I am very low risk because less than 10 nodes were removed. I had 7 removed. Although, there is a slight risk during radiation. But I have my exercises to do twice a day and going to order a sleeve for traveling days. Cancer sucks!!!

Being proactive is the way to go!! So glad it is not lymphedema!! Hugs!

A compression sleeve might be good to start if you can't be seen right away, the only problem with getting one, you need to make sure its the right size . Be careful not to cut yourself in the area and if getting seen by a doctor takes long look up Lymphedema massage on youtube and you will learn how to massage it.

There is, hopefully a chance you don't have it.

Google AI >>

lymphedema does not typically go away on its own. Once the lymphatic system is damaged, it cannot regenerate itself. However, with treatment, lymphedema symptoms can be managed and improved, but it is a chronic condition.

Chronic Condition:
Lymphedema is a long-term condition where lymph fluid builds up in the body's tissues, causing swelling. It usually occurs after damage to the lymphatic system, often due to cancer treatment (surgery or radiation) or other injuries.

No Cure:
There is currently no cure for lymphedema, meaning it cannot be fully reversed or eliminated once it develops.

Management, Not Cure:
While lymphedema cannot be cured, its symptoms can be managed effectively through various treatments and therapies. These include manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, skin care, and exercise.

Importance of Early Treatment:
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing lymphedema and preventing it from worsening. Treatment can help reduce swelling, improve range of motion, and minimize the risk of complications like skin infections.

My surgeon told me the removal of 5+ nodes significantly raises the risk of lymphedema, which is baseline 20-40% for people who have mastectomies. Radiation raises the risk even
more. To reduce my chance of getting it, she wants a microsurgeon to be in the OR with her during my mastectomy, who will connect the removed node areas with a vein (for drainage). She mentioned the microsurgeon may harvest vessels from my
leg to do so. Has anyone heard of this or had it done?

I have currently started lymphadema therapy for my right arm. When my lymphs in my armpit get clogged it really swells and usually turns into cellulitis. I'm on my second round of antibiotics. I can't get a sleeve just yet. My arm is too big but when the swelling stabilizes and goes down then I can be measured for one. Massage therapy is once a week for now. I apply lotion( no perfume) to keep skin from breaking down and helps prevent bacteria infections from starting. Staying out of the heat helps too. Sure wish they would come up with a cure for this!!! 🥹👍🙏🏻❤️