? Lymphedema

Hello,

I had breast cancer in 2023 and completed my treatment in 2023. I had surgery including removal of 23 lymph nodes.

I've noticed over the last 3 weeks I'm getting a sharp pain on the side my cancer was the pain almost feels like a burning sensation or like a nip. It lasts around a second and disappears. There's no pattern and it doesn't stop me doing anything. It happens around 5 to 10 times a day. I feel like it's more swollen at that side, not noticeable. 

I did feel like this had settled and then i went trampolining with my children at the weekend and it's started again.

I didn't know if this was the start of some lymphedema? 

I'm trying not to worry but I'm also really worried....

Just hoping someone has had something similar and can offer some reassurance.

Thanks

Jess x

  • Hello, and thank you for posting.

    I am sorry that you have been having ongoing pains since breast cancer treatment.

    This is not unusual, as many nerves are affected post-surgery and take time to heal.

    Do talk to your doctor or breast cancer nurse if this pain or the swelling is a problem. They may want to review you and assess properly themselves. If the pain becomes an ongoing problem they may suggest some nerve pain killers.

    Lymphoedema is slightly different in how it presents, but do have a read and mention your concerns about it to your team.

    Take care and if you want to talk to the nurses call freephone 0808 800 4040. Lines are open mon-fri, 9-5.

    Sarah.