Hi all, after 18 weeks of chemotherapy. I had a mastectomy on 24 June with axillary clearance. Before starting three weeks of radiotherapy, I had a CT scan (presumably of whole body or perhaps the torso - I was terrified so didn't ask many questions). They saw a tiny collection of blood vessels on the spine, so I had to have an MRI. Radiotherapy to the chest wall, axillary and collarbone area finished 14 September. Two days after, I had a bone scan (which took ages) and this was clear of metastasis..
Shortly after radiotherapy, in September. I developed lymphodoema in chest wall, axillary area, and the flank round the back of the armpit. It's not goes up and down, but the tightness in the armpit and across the chest wall can be noticeable. Stupidly, and for about a week I stopped doing the exercises regularly.
Just before Christmas, I noticed a mild ache in collarbone area. Not everyday, and not when resting or asleep. This became diffuse, my shoulder aches, back of shoulder, back of neck, sometimes top of arm. It comes and goes, disappears on exercise and resting on the bed. But some days it can be a drag. It's a bit like the discomfort I used to get when I had a bag on my shoulder for too long - but I can't use that shoulder now.
Has anyone else experienced this? Whist it seems to be getting less bothersome since upping the exercises, I'm terrified that it's mets or a recurrence, especially as a small area between my neck and collar bone seems a bit puffy compared to the other side. However, my chest wall and armpit has been puffy for months.
Ive contacted my doctor for an appointment, but wonder if this is something to expect after surgery / radio, etc.
thank you!!