Possible start of lymphodema ??

[kristen8594]

Hello....
I am hoping someone can give me some advice about my arm. Surgery to remove 13 nodes 7 years ago and through that time I have had on and off minor problems with my arm.....tingling ...puffy feeling...heavy sensation...which I am sure are signs of lymphodema. I am currently having those issues again...most likely from shoveling the constant snow we are getting. I do work out with heavy weights almost every day and am very active but that really hasn't been a problem.
My question is should I call the doctor or are there some things I can do.....heat...ice....something????
I do wear a sleeve when it starts to act up but now I wonder if the sleeve is helping.
Any advice would be helpful.
Thanks....Kristen

[rondo]

Kristen,
GET THEE TO A PHYSICAL THERAPIST pronto who specializes in lymphedema treatment. Ask your oncologist for a referral. Don't delay because the earlier treatment is started the better the outcome. The therapist will do some specific work on you in the office and will also show you home self-care protocols (kind of a daily massage). It only takes a few minutes a day once you know how. I have a protocol I follow daily; it works well and I haven't had to go back to the PT since the initial sessions.