I am having lymph node removal next week. Is this network for people already with lymphodema or can I being at risk join. Thank you

[sapphire26]

[mldmassage]

Hi, welcome to the site, I'm sure that you are welcome in any event. Sorry to hear that you're going through lymph node removal next week. If you have any questions feel free to ask at any point there are both patients and professionals on here . There are certain steps you can take to try and reduce the risk of lymphoedema developing.

[Law_Student]

Why are you having lymph nodes removed? The usual reason is to check if cancer has spread so I assume you have already had cancer. However, I think there are different techniques for removing lymph nodes, some less risky than others. My advice is to get a second medical opinion before you go ahead with the operation. You are at risk of contracting secondary lymphoedema if you do go ahead with the operation so it is important to find out as much as possible about the treatment you are being offered and why.

[lovesradio]

I am in agreement with the two earlier respondents on this. I have secondary lymphoedema in left arm following removal of lymph nodes during mastectomy. But as it says above it is not a given, and you should be given advice about how to care for your arm to try to reduce the risk.

[norberte]

hi saphire

i agree, welcome to the forum & i hope you don't end up joining the club

just bear in mind that we tend to come looking for support when things aren't going that great, but most of the time most of us just get on with life

so don't let all this worry you too much

good luck next week

[LymphSuppNetwork Partner LSN]

Hi Sapphire

You should be given information before the porcedure on your chances of developing lymphoedema - if you woul dlike a leaflet on what you can do to reduce the risk give the office a ring on 020 7351 4480

[PaddyZ]

Hi Sapphire, make sure it is absolutely necessary to remove your lymphnodes. I had 19 lymphnodes removed during my mastectomy, the sentinel node first when I had the lumpectomy and as they found micromets in that one they also removed the other 18. The other 18 were fine. But unfortunately the removal of these lymphnodes caused me to get lymphoedema in my right arm. I know we are all different, with different numbers of nodes so it does not mean you will definitely get lymphoedema, but please make sure they really have to remove them. If you do have to get them removed make sure you get all the info, massages and exercises, etc. to reduce the risk of getting lymphoedema. And always keep your skin moisturised and drinks lots of water.

Good luck with everything.