Hello.
Over the past 2 years I’ve been suffering severe weakness, pain, swelling and numbness in my left arm and hand, following chemo, surgery and RT back in 2015, for male BC. Over this time I’ve seen an Orthopaedic surgeon who told me ‘these things can happen’; lymph oedema nurse, physio (well actually 2 phone calls); had an MRI on my neck, ultrasound scan in the collar bone area, none of which have categorically pinpointed the exact issue. Meanwhile my arm/hand issue has gotten to the point where I can barely use it.
Obviously my Oncologist is aware there’s an issue but it’s worsened since I last saw her. I’m currently taking Palbociclib, letrozole and zoladex. Could one or more of these be the cause I wonder?
So, this morning I saw my GP. He suspects the problem is the combination of all the treatment I’ve had/having. He prescribed Amitriptyline and recommended a specialist cancer physio. Does such a person exist?
Im also interested to know if anyone else has experienced similar issues and specialist physio etc.
Cheers
Hi Ian_M and a warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community but sorry that you needed to find us and I am especially sorry to hear about your pain and swelling. I just dropped by and noticed no-one's replied to your question just yet but I'm sure someone will be along soon. Whilst you're waiting, it might be a good idea to Ask a Nurse here on the Macmillan forum but you might have to wait a couple of days for a reply.
Although I had a different type of cancer, any cancer diagnosis brings many questions, lots of confusion and stress but talking with other people who are on the same type of journey will help you navigate this rollercoaster.
The Community is organised into dedicated support groups so can I see you have joined our supportive Lymphoedema group, this will be a good place to connect with others navigating the same type of cancer journey.
When you have a minute, it would be great if you could pop something about your journey so far into your profile as it really helps others when answering or looking for someone with a similar diagnosis. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time.
It’s always good to talk and the Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here to see what is available and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
Sending you welcoming hugs Bx
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
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