Lymphedema what is it and what can you do about it?

The first time I noticed something was wrong was when my finger looked like a Cumberland sausage. On closer inspection, it was also difficult to move and my hand had puffed up. To be fair my hands never looked so young as it hid my lines but I also looked like I had too many pies.

After a quick visit to the GP, I was referred to the Lymphodema clinic. Now I don’t know about you but the word lymphodema is horrendous and sounds like something is seriously wrong. Me being me went into super panic mode.

So what is it?

It’s a build-up of lymph fluid. If you have had surgery that messes with your lymph nodes then you might be susceptible to it, You usually get it in your arm, hand, or body. Without going into some massive medical explanation it means your lymph nodes which remove bacteria and keep you healthy are struggling. This leads to a build-up of fluid.

Does it hurt?

Well, it's not pleasant I’m not going to lie. It is more a feeling of tightness like wearing a shirt 3 sizes too small.it can feel numb, heavy and you have to watch out for infection.

Jewelry can seem tight and your arm can ache and movement can feel restrictive.

For me, it happened about 5 months after surgery but it can happen much earlier or later. I had all my lymph nodes removed so I was in the most at-risk category

So that is the bad news what can you do about it?

If you think you have lymphedema go and see your breast cancer nurse/ doctor. Mine is called Sue and is brilliant.

She gave me a series of exercises to help the flow of the lymph fluid. She also gave me massages which you do on yourself. You don’t have to press hard as the lymph nodes are just below the skin. The only downside is they are mind-numbingly dull.

I also got given a sleeve and glove. In typical NHS style, they are American tan and can not be described as cool. I have however seen sites where you can buy funky sleeves which look like tattoos. As Sue said ‘just make sure you ge the right size.’

Cellulitis

I have had this twice. You are going to be susceptible to it and you must watch out for it. It's an infection under the skin. For me, my arm got hot and looked like I had held it over a candle. A quick visit to the GP soon put me on a course of antibiotics which clear it up.

Prevention however is better than cure.

If you have lymph node removal any cut is more likely to get infected so try and avoid the following.

• Keep your skin clean and moisturised
• Take blood and injection in the other arm.
• If possible, have blood drawn, injections, IVs, and vaccinations given in your unaffected arm.
• It’s a tough one but avoid professional manicures
• If you cut yourself wash and clean the area as soon as possible
• Avoid insect bites (see my fact sheet)
• Wear gloves when washing up or gardening
• Wear oven mitts

I know I'm stating the obvious!