[caya]

I had 16 lymph nodes removed, and 2 years after my MRM I cut myself while slicing veggies. I did clean it, applied polysporin - but the next morning my entire right hand was slightly swollen. I knew immediately it was lymphedema and called my breast surgeon's office. His secretary said it could not be lymphedema because I was 2 years out from the surgery - uh, I told her- it can happen 20 years after the surgery, get me in to see him. She got me in the next day, and he was glad I had insisted, as it was lymphedema, albeit a very mild case. He sent my to the lymphedema clinic at the hospital, I got a compression sleeve and glove, which I only wear when I fly, and even then I sometimes forget.

I did get massage instruction, and have a yearly follow up at the clinic where they do the arm measurements etc. I am very very careful not to lift anything heavy, and try not to cut myself, of course - but if I do, I immediately clean and bandage it. You can't be too careful - I try my best, and my lymphedema is almost nil.

all the best
caya