Hello I am a bit concerned after removal of Lymph nodes 24 days later I am still feeling very sore and the numbness and what feels like burning sensation won’t go away. Not expecting things to be better overnight but it’s extremely unconfirmed me and paracetamol isn’t the answer I don’t think!
Hi Haze62,
My name is Amy and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. Welcome to our online community. I can see you have also joined our breast cancer forum, and hope you are finding that a safe and supportive space.
I’m sorry to hear you are still in a lot of pain since having your lymph nodes removed 26 days ago now. It’s still early days, the numbness and tingling sensations you describe are usually caused by damage to the nerves. This should gradually improve over time but for some people this can cause ongoing pain.
For many people over the counter medication like paracetamol and/or ibuprofen can help. If you find this is not working, get in touch with your GP and they may prescribe a codeine-based pain killer. Sometimes if the pain is long lasting they may consider a pain killer specifically for nerve pain, but they may not go straight to that while you are only a few weeks post-op.
It can help to continue with your exercises as much as possible. You should have been given information post-op but here is a booklet from Breast Cancer Now you can download. Or you can ask to be referred to a specialist physiotherapist experienced in supporting breast cancer patients.
You can also get back in touch with your breast cancer care nurse or surgeon (via their secretary) to discuss your concerns, they may be able to offer advice and reassurance over the phone or bring your follow-up appointment forward.
We often find we can help more by exploring these questions over the phone. If this is something you think would help, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch via our support line on 0808 808 0000. We are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm.
I hope this helps.
Best wishes,
Amy C, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
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/DW
