Well, as much as I don’t want to say it, I am demonstrating signs of Lymphodema. That is a malfunctioning of the lymphatic system when lymph nodes are removed with surgery. It is a risk with all breast cancer patients who undergo the lymph node biopsies. We all get directed to the Lymphodema classes so we become aware of symptoms of it occurring. If three or less lymph nodes are removed, it is rare for lymphodema to occur, but can happen with traveling by plane. It is recommended to wear a compression sleeve when flying.
It seems like for me, I get all the rare symptoms or events. I had three lymph nodes biopsied, and I didn’t think I would have problems, but after going to the Lymphodema therapist several times, she said I had to wear a compression sleeve everyday during waking hours. I haven’t been too happy with that. There are just so many issues with body changes and changes in life that I have to deal with now. Wearing a compression sleeve brings attention to myself that something is wrong. I see people look at it and then glance away. I know they are wondering what it is for and what is wrong with me. It isn’t the kind of attention I have ever desired, but there it is.
After my last visit with the therapist, she suggested that I take my arm measurements to make sure I am not having swelling during the nighttime. So I did my measurements before I went to bed, and then redid them in the morning, and the result was an evident increase in my forearm. I called the therapist’s office and told them my findings and that I now need to order a compression wrap for night use. I am not liking this, but I really can not let it go either. Lymphodema is not something to let go to the point where it isn’t treatable. And I was convinced that it wouldn’t happen to me. I guess I said that about cancer too, that I wouldn’t ever get cancer. I keep putting my foot into my mouth as the saying goes. So Monday I return to the therapist’s office to get measured for another contraption for my cancer care. Oh boy! I guess I am special and just have to get all the rare stuff.