Hi having had a double mastectomy and removal of 1 lymph node in one arm and 3 in the other I am being told I cannot have blood taken from my arms but it has to be from my leg? Is this correct please?
Hi having had a double mastectomy and removal of 1 lymph node in one arm and 3 in the other I am being told I cannot have blood taken from my arms but it has to be from my leg? Is this correct please?
Hi Oket.
Thanks for getting in touch through our online community. I’m Helen and I’m one of the Macmillan cancer information nurse specialists on our support line. I see you’ve joined our breast cancer forum; I hope you are finding it a supportive environment.
There’s no consistent evidence that using an “at risk” arm for injections, blood tests, blood pressure readings or intravenous fluids will cause lymphoedema.
Venepuncture in the feet is generally avoided due to a higher risk of complications like infection and blood clots, but may be considered as a last resort in adults when other sites are inaccessible.
If you do need bloods taking, it would be advisable to discuss the risks and benefits with your team, as ultimately it is a personal choice whether to have the blood taken from your arms or your feet.
I hope you found this information helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in contact with us if you need further information or support.
Best wishes
Helen K
The Macmillan Support Line offers practical, clinical, financial and emotional support. You can call us free from landlines and from most mobile phone networks on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8am – 8pm or contact us by email or webchat.
Ref: HK / LZD
