Lymph node biopsy recovery dragging me down. Specifially stickiness.

hello. I sympathise. I was the same. I have 2 scars and therefore had 2 dressings. the sentinel node one ended up being stuck in my armpit. the stick was the worst thing. I had to try and unstick myself and I couldn't feel my armpit to do it. it does get better. I had to get help as I couldn't see what I was doing (not a contortionist!) don't use acetone in case it near wound but I found a damp flannel or rubbing a little moisturiser over area (but not over wound) helped it. afraid it was a good 3 weeks. luke warm shower over back and a slight rub helped but it was quite sensitive. take a painkiller before you start as it will ease pain. Good luck.

keep going...one day at a time x

Thanks for your response earlier always good to get a bit of support.  I had mentioned it to friends as well and a nurse suggested baby oil.  I had some in so gave it a go,  all glue came off really easily and now I am stick free.  Its so much more comfortable.  Now working through my excercises to ensure the cording doesnt hinder my radiation.  Thanks again and suggest this to the next poor sole, just a bit on some cotton wool wiped gently over.  

What a great suggestion.  Wish I'd known that one. Glad it feeling better. I still have fairly numb armpit. I have some sensation coming back to back of my arm but still tingley. I'm sure i had a bit of cording but kept doing a little massage in shower and it not too bad. Good luck with recovery and next steps xx

Hi Waterspirit,

Thank you for getting in touch. I hope you’re recovering is going well.

I’m sorry to hear that you were experiencing discomfort from your wound dressing hopefully now that you have removed them it’s eased a little. The residue from the wounds can be difficult to remove at times.

I see that you have been active on our Breast Cancer Forum and have received some wonderful support. It also appears that you have tried using baby oil and it has helped to remove the residue, I hope that you are much more comfortable now.

Sometimes using some baby oil, olive oil or Vaseline on some cloth or cotton wool (as long as the wound is avoided)  can help remove the residue. However, if you are still having difficulty it may be worthwhile speaking with your practice nurse to see if they have anything to help removing the residue.

You can also speak to your Breast Care Nurse about your experience and they will be able to arrange for some one to review your wound.

Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.