Breast pain years after surgery

Milder it's so hard. We think once treatment is over we will go back to pre cancer normal. This is rarely the case. 

I had nerve pain in my right breast for 20 years after my first surgery. It was like someone stabbing me with a knitting needle. It was worse early on but it could still make me catch my breath up to this surgery. It was weekly by then not multiple times during the day. I remember, on holiday, swimming. The water on the side of had radiotherapy, weirdly felt colder than the other non treated side. Initially I thought my bikini had dropped at that side. 

What does the skin look like in the affected breast? Lymphedema can cause sensitivity and discomfort. The skin will look like orange peel with deep pores that are very visible. It can occur at anytime.

The best thing to do is go get it all checked. There are things that can be done to make you feel more comfortable. Talking to health care and Macmillan though they often refer to radiotherapy as " the gift that keeps on giving" . 

Gentle hugs. 

Thanks Siverberg, I really appreciate your support. I will try in get a chat with a Macmillan nurse.

The skin on my breast is ok but its very lumpy inside which makes it really difficult when Im checking for lumps.

I have scar tissue and lymph massage sometimes and that helps with the pain a little but as I am just past 5 years post op, I won't get another scan for 3 years. If I have a concern now, I need to first go to my GP and wait to be referred.

A bit frustrating but it is what it is.

X

Hi Julzee 

I have a lot of sensitivity and pain and lumpiness. I do a quick lymphatic drainage massage every morning which helps and I also spend a few minutes (on the days I’m not rushing) to lightly massage the lumpiest areas - this keeps things under control. 
Could you see the scar therapist again and ask them how best to manage things going forward? That’s what the person I saw did and they also recommended a video for lymphatic drainage (I can’t share it as that’s against the rules). This was all a game changer for me. 
I hope you can find some help X 

I think it’s more common than people realise. I have tenderness around the actual lumpectomy scar, but the most uncomfortable is the area to the left of it, radiating under my arm, where the lymph gland was removed. After nearly 3 years, I don’t think it will improve but I’ve probably learned to ignore it. 

Hi Bobof, its good to hear that other people have had similar issues although it would be even better if none of us did! Im seeing my therapist next week so I'll ask her to help me with some massage techniques for self care. X