Lymphedema will generally occur in the part of the body that is “drained” by lymph nodes for that specific area. If you had lymph nodes removed under your arm (axillary lymph nodes), it's possible you may develop lymphedema in your chest, back, or arm on that same side. The condition usually starts to present at the farthest part of the limb such as the hand or ankle, however, you should monitor all risk areas. Early treatment is important to minimise the symptoms and improve the outcome.
Many conditions share the same symptoms and some symptoms are very subtle so it is easily misdiagnosed or "fobbed" off by doctors or therapists without exposure or experience when treating lymphedema sufferers.
Symptoms of lymphedema can be intermittent and can include :
- Achiness, tingling, discomfort, or increased warmth experienced in the hand, arm, chest, breast, or underarm areas
- A fullness or heaviness feeling in the hand, arm, chest, breast, or underarm
- Tightness or decreased flexibility in nearby joints, such as the shoulder, hand, or wrist
- “Bursting” or “shooting” pain sensations, or pins and needles
- Tenderness in the elbow
- Slight puffiness or swelling in your arm, hand, chest, or breast, with a temporary indentation of the skin when you press on it with your finger (this is called pitting edema)
- Veins or tendons in the hand are harder to see, and/or the knuckles look less pronounced, or once-wrinkled skin looks younger or smoother, visible puffiness of the skin
- Trouble fitting the arm into a jacket or shirt sleeve that fit well before
- The bra feels tighter, does not fit the same, or leaves an indentation on the skin
- Noticing that the two sides of the back look different in size (asymmetrical)
- Difficulty putting on and taking off watches, rings, or bracelets
- Skin texture changes or appearance, such as tightness, redness, or hardening
- Rash, itching, redness, pain, or warmth of the skin
- Fever or flu-like symptoms
If you may have experienced any of these symptoms or think you may have lymphedema and are yet to be diagnosed, please contact a therapist near you or alternatively contact RianCorp with any additional questions you may have.
