Cellulitus after lymph clearance

FormerMember
FormerMember
  • 3 replies
  • 28 subscribers
  • 2858 views
  • Hello I am just recovering after 6 days in hospital after having cellulitus in my hand arm, arm out and breast. I was diagnosed with Triple Negative BC in July 2018 and had lumpectomy, full lymph clearance , chemo and radiotherapy which finished in March 2019. I have some lymphedema in my arm and had lots of cording. The cellulitus came on so quickly and I was admitted as an emergency with spiking temperature of 39.5. I had intravenous antibiotics(2 kinds) and when I left hospital had to take more antibiotics for 7 days . I am feeling better but concerned about now being more likely to get it again. Has anyone experienced this?
  • Hi Sscruise. I haven’t had cellulitis but I do have lymphoedema, mainly in my hand and less in my arm. I had horrible cording for about 10 months but it did go away. I just kept stretching my arm all the time. I now have full movement again, no cording but I am numb but it’s not a bother really. If you don’t already do this I would advise definitely wearing a compression sleeve when flying. I didn’t do this on one flight and my lymphoedema got worse. I hope you’re now feeling much better x

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to Run4it

    Thank you Run4it I am feeling better but now noticing more lymphoedema and having to wear my sleeve more often. Since the cellulitis episode I have had more pain under my arm similar to cording than before. I am lucky that I am able to visit the physio at my local Breast Centre to check this out. Thank you for your advice too.

  • Also I would definitely recommend Kinesio Taping, especially on the back of your hand. It really works for me as it lifts the skin which I think allows the fluid to move easier. Very strange technique but I would definitely recommend giving it a try!