Vaccinations following breast surgery and radiotherapy

Sorry for the confusion,  I meant lymph nodes removed. I did have both but after lymph node removal I did have swelling and was worried I was developing lymphoedema on RHS. I’ve kept up with the stretching exercises and although to me it still feels swollen, the consultant reckons it’s very mild. However I’ll stick to having both jabs on left arm. 

I always get both Covid and flu done together in the same arm anyway, it’s not a problem. The risk on the other arm is linked to how many lymph nodes you have had removed. I avoid getting blood pressure done on that side but usually use it for bloods as it has a far better vein. 

Hi yes at same time as tumour was removed from my right breast and the lymph nodes on the same side.

Thanks, I find it quite strange that there are so many variations in the advice were given depending on region, oncologist, etc. All of this is hard enough without the conflicting advice. Over the time I’ve been on the site there are multiple examples of it x

No problem. I do understand what you mean by conflicting information and experiences. I think it also comes down to different diagnosis and stages of treatment in each individual case. 

I really can't recommend what.to have and when as I'm not a doctor or a specialist, only give my experiences.

I hope you get the right answer that suits you

Best wishes and take care of yourself x

Hi Emlee, did they say how long you should not use right arm for vaccinations following your surgery? Hope you are doing ok x

Hi all,

I’ve erred on the safe side always for any treatments, jabs, tests etc, always in my unaffected arm. I’ve not had a full node clearance but sentinel nodes first time, other nodes this time, one of which was positive. I’ve therefore had radiotherapy and due to the amount of ‘digging’ in my surgery I do have very slight lymphoedema in my thumb and wrist area. It got worse during the  rads (July) but is still gradually easing. 

i got asked why both vaxs in right arm, just said lymphoedema and that was fine. They do tend to chart which they do where in their notes, i guess in case of any reactions. 

Hugs xxx

Hi Beth, thank you for your reply and I'm so glad you had no I'll effects after having vaccinations in both arms.

I'm going to follow the advice of those on this , and stick to one arm to be on the safe side!

Keep well x

Thanks for the advice Codfish, I'm actually not sure how many lymph glands were removed, so I think I will continue sticking to the opposite arm to be safe.

Hope you are doing ok x

Thank you Moomy, I'm sorry you are having issues due to lymphoedema and thanks for the advice, I'm going to stick to other arm to avoid any risks x