[Gerri]

Caya,

So sorry to hear that you have this to deal with now. Hopefully early intervention will keep it under control.

I just want to add that this is why posting about these things is so important to others. Laurel was right, I too am so cavalier about the arm that I had my SNB. I always make sure it is not used for BP or needle sticks and thought I was doing the right thing. A few weeks ago I was at a bridal shower and noticed that I had somehow cut that arm and it was bleeding. I didn't give it a second thought, just dabbed away the blood and put a bandaid on it later that night. It started getting red and hot to the touch. I woke up in the middle of the night (three days later) and remembered the whole risk of lymphedema thing. My cut was still inflamed but it was starting to look better; I called my PCP and got an antibiotic anyway. I am hoping that I am in the clear since I haven't noticed any out of the ordinary swelling. This taught me to be more aware of taking care with that arm and to follow the advice I would be sure to give others in this situation....I'm even going to finish the course of antibiotics thanks to your post.

Thanks for posting this Caya. I hope you caught it in time and will be able to prevent further problems.

All my best,