post mastectomy itchy burny nerve pain

Hi, My mastectomy and reconstruction was in December 19. Initially I was ok despite blistering and nasty scabbing over the various wounds and incisions made to deal with the tumour and a very old implant which needed to be removed, but now, Im getting a lot of itchy skin sensations, and flicks of burning sensations like a quick burst of pins and needles, the itchy and sore skin is under collarbone where because of congenital chest deformity there isnt much tissue, the numb/alternating with bursts of pin and needle sensation radiates from side under arm to round over shoulder blade area. Im guessing it might be nerve damage, but it is incredibly wearing and uncomfortable, and I would appreciate any suggestions about how to manage it please, Ive tried having bits of some amytriptylline tablets in very small doses, as Ive used that for post op neuropathy from foot surgery, but Im not keen on the side effects of grogginess next day.  suggestions please if anyone can help, cos out breast unit is affected by pressures from COVID meaning they have issues answering phone queries.

 

  • Poland, I'm so sorry to read what you're contending with at the moment and the difficulties you're having getting through to the breast cancer unit. It must be very frustrating but do keep trying as they should be able to help.

    Our cancer nurses are available on 0808 800 4040 between 9a.m - 5p.m during the week if you'd like to discuss this with them as well but hopefully some of our members will get back to you with their advice and suggestions soon.

    I do hope things start to improve and wish you all the best with your recovery.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • thanks steph, since posting they have rung me, put my mind at rest that its probably nerves re generating, and then today the physio rang to update about the exercises they had sent me a video of to try and improve arm mobility on affected side, I  now have some new ones and he will phone in three weeks to see how its doing, has also recommended massage, the nurse thinks I have cording and abuild up of tissue which is making things tight and sore, so need to keep massaging and rolling tissue with biooil, and put a towel on kitchen table and keep using it to slide arm back and forth to stretch the underarm and chest muscles, well impressed Ive had call off GP to see how I am too and she did a meds review and sorted out repeat prescriptions, totally off their own back!