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Mastectomy Pain

Lou2H
  • 2 replies
  • 35 subscribers
  • 186 views

Hi, I had a mastectomy and sentinel node biopsy 2 weeks ago (unsure yet how many lymph nodes were removed until I see surgeon on 21.3.24) and I had my drain removed a week ago and was at that point passing 70ml fluid in 24hrs. The pain under my arm is getting worse and I can see the fluid is building up. My wound is fine but is the pain being caused from the surgery or the fluid build up and does the fluid need draining? I have a high tolerance to pain but this is causing restriction of exercises and keeps me awake. Many thanks, Louise

  • Hi Lou2H,

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community.

    My name is Carole and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    It’s not unusual to have questions or concerns about side effects from surgery.

    It’s good to read that your wound is fine. However, I’m sorry to read that your pain is becoming worse and that it’s restricting exercise and keeping you awake.

    Worsening symptoms or side effects should always be reported to your hospital specialist team.

    We would recommend that you speak to them today.

    If you have a breast care nurse, you could give them a call. If not, you should be able to get in touch with a clinical member of staff within the breast team.

    They might want to examine you, or they may be able to give you advice over the phone.

    If you are not able to do this, you should phone your GP or 111.

    You are welcome to give us a call on the Support Line if you’d like to talk to one of the nurses. And our online breast cancer forum can be a good place to get support too.

    I hope this is helpful.

    Sending best wishes,

    Carole

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref/AC

  • in reply to Carole F - Macmillan

    Thank you so much Carole and I now have an appointment to see my surgeon Thursday.

    Best wishes

    Lou

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