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Lymphedema or something else?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Indianapolis, IN

20 months post op and have had physical therapy for mild lymphedema a year ago. Now I have some swelling and tenderness around my ribcage under my arm on my surgery side. I’m scared! I assume it’s lymphedema again but my doctor is doing ANOTHER diagnostic mammogram (had one 3 months ago) and an ultrasound on my side and I’m scared. Does anyone have lymphedema presenting as rib cage swelling and tenderness? I’ll have answers Friday but that feels like so long. You all get it! I’m scared… read more

4 days ago
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A MyBCTeam Member

@ChristineSummerhill

Get a referral to a certified lymphedema PT. May need to wait 4-6 weeks.

3 days ago
MyBCTeam

First — the fear is completely valid, and it makes total sense that Friday feels like forever away. Waiting is genuinely one of the hardest parts of this journey.

The good news is that yes, lymphedema absolutely can present as swelling and tenderness around the ribcage, not just in the arm. It can affect the breast, chest Show Full Answer

First — the fear is completely valid, and it makes total sense that Friday feels like forever away. Waiting is genuinely one of the hardest parts of this journey.

The good news is that yes, lymphedema absolutely can present as swelling and tenderness around the ribcage, not just in the arm. It can affect the breast, chest, and surrounding areas on the surgery side. Other MyBCTeam members have shared similar experiences. One member noted that their rib pain and swelling turned out to be lymphedema in the breast wall. Another shared ongoing rib pain and soreness on both sides four years after their mastectomy, also managing lymphedema.

Lymphedema can also reappear or shift over time, so new swelling in a nearby area isn't unusual, even if your previous PT addressed it elsewhere. Your doctor is being thorough, which is actually a really good sign. While waiting, here are a few things that may help:

- Avoid tight clothing around the affected area
- Elevate the arm on your surgery side when resting
- Avoid heavy lifting until you have answers
- Note your symptoms — when swelling is worse, what makes it better or worse — so you're ready for Friday's conversation Hang in there — you're doing everything right by staying on top of it and advocating for yourself. Friday will come! 💙

4 days ago
A MyBCTeam Member

I was just diagnosed with lymphadema over my left clavicle from lifting laundry .
Anyone else have that happen and any good advice about getting rid of it ?

3 days ago
A MyBCTeam Member

Also, a lot of people can get Costochondritis
which can come and go.

4 days ago (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

I have lyphadema in my right side my breast
Cancer side, area involved, my arm, my breast and my right back, I had a very large area that was radiated.

4 days ago

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