MerryPoppins said:
I only had one lymph node removed. They told me to avoid sticks (blood draws and such) and injuries to that arm and be careful when sewing. They said to avoid carrying heavy packages on that side. Other than that they really told me nothing.
Do I not need to worry as much since they only took one? Or am I just totally in the dark? It's been 4 years and I've never had any trouble. Well, once my mom thought my arm looked a little swollen, but I couldn't tell.
I have been told that I have more risk (16 nodes) than someone having only 5-6 nodes. I would think the risk is much less with only one removed. I think having radiation can also increase the risk to some degree.
I'll jot down some guidelines from the book Women's gave me.
Lymphedema is swelling that can begin months to years after your surgery. This may be caused by scar tissue hindering the flow of lymph fluid from the arm. If you notice that your arm looks swollen or that your clothes or jewelry feel tighter than usual or that your arm feels heavy call your doctor immediately.
Things to remember from now on if you have had lymph nodes removed.
Break down heavy loads into smaller, lighter ones that you can manage easily (groceries and laundry). Do not try to move heavy furniture without help.
(I never carry grocery bags with my left arm, except for just briefly. I ask the clerks to pack them lighter.)
Break down vacuuming, scrubbing, painting, stirring and similar activities into 10 minute intervals. Avoid forceful repetitive movements during your daily activities or during exercise. (I think this is a bit overkill, I don't comply with it as far as house cleaning goes. For exercise I mostly ride my stationery bike or walk so my arm is not subjected to repetitive movements).
Remind health care providers to take blood and measure blood pressure on the uninvolved side. (I try to do this, once I forgot and my pressure was taken, did not have a problem.) This includes injections and IV's as well.
Wear oven mitts to protect from burns. (I do this anyway).
Wear gloves when gardening or doing housework. (I wear long gloves in the yard, no gloves when cleaning in the house.)
Use an electric razor for shaving. (I do this, my underarm area is so numb, I can't imagine not doing it, I could easily hurt myself).
Use a thimble when sewing. (No sewing here!!!)
Avoid tools that vibrate for extended periods of time, for example lawn and garden equipment. (I do use the leaf blower, for 10-15 minutes maybe).
Avoid cuts and scrapes and bites from insects and pets. (This one I am very aware of). I use oodles of mosquito spray, and I am careful to use antibiotics when I get a small cut, etc.)
Avoid peeling crawfish, shrimp or crabs. (This wouldn't apply to most of you ladies, but I am careful. I did skip crawfish this season. We do cook shrimp, initially my husband peeled them, but I have gone back to doing it. I am careful and I only do a pound or two at a time. I take my time with it. I have not tried peeling crabs.)
Avoid hot tubs and saunas. (I do this.)
Avoid staying in the sun for long periods. (I do this.)
Use sunscreen when outdoors. (I do this.)
Use oven mitts instead of smaller pot holders when reaching into the oven. (I do this.)
Avoid sitting under hot hair dryers for long periods. (Do people still do this??)
Avoid using a heating pad on involved arm. (I don't own one.)
Look for clothing made of cotton or other breathable fabrics for hot weather.
(I have switched over mostly to cotton fabrics due to hot flashes as well.)
Avoid clothing with tight sleeves. Avoid tight watches and jewelry. (I do this, I don't wear rings and bought an inexpensive new watch that is loose).
Elevate the swollen arm when possible. (I do this frequently, whenever I think of it. It is just as important for prevention as it is after the arm is already "swollen". Try to do this three times a day.)
Avoid letting a heavy handbag of shopping bag hang over the involved arm or shoulder. (I bought a new lightweight purse, downsized my wallet. I do not wear even the streamlined one on my left shoulder.)
Lymph circulation will be more efficient if your heart circulation is also efficient. (Another reason to exercise.)
Avoid alcohol and smoking. (I drink just a little alcohol, too much the last 2 weeks, sadly, and do not smoke).
Maintain your ideal weight. (I have a long way to go here.)
Keep your sodium intake at a moderate level (less than 2400 mg/day.) (I am trying, also helps with blood pressure.)
Keep your skin clean and dry. Wash hands frequently. Use moisturizer to avoid cracking and peeling. (I wash my hands a lot. Note to self: use moisturizer.)
If you get a cut, scrape, or other minor break in the skin wash with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment.
Be aware of signs of infection. Call you doctor IMMEDIATELY if you notice increased swelling, redness (all over or localized small red dots), heat (your arm feels warm), a fever, or pain. It is important to treat infections EARLY.
Stuff from my other brochures about lymphedema:
Heavy protheses may put pressure on the lymph nodes above the collarbone.
Wear a lighter weight prothesis.
Bras should be well-fitted without wire support but with possibly a soft pad under the strap. (This is what I do.)
I also have been told manicures are not wise. I am not a manicure person anyway, so it is not an issue for me. At least be careful with cutting the cuticles.
Sorry this is so long but I included everything I could find. Hope it is helpful.
Some of the guidelines may be overkill, the lymphedema expert I had a free consult with even said that. You have to live your life. Just be vigilant. I bet it is a lot more difficult when nodes are removed on both sides. I feel lucky I am right handed so I mostly use my right hand to lift stuff, housework, etc.
I will see her at our group meeting next week. 
:thewave: 
to you, hope you can find a little time during the day to do something nice for yourself as well as remember the fact we've survived another year!! 
