Lymphoedema

Hi Jkg,

I first had a swelling between my legs right from the moment of the operation 6 years ago. The consultant said it was fat and it gradually went down. But then I noticed that my right leg swelled up every evening. My doctor said to raise the leg when watching tv in the evening, and contact him when my bad leg was 3 times the size of my good one! The swelling has gradually got worse over the years until a couple of months ago I noticed a hard ridge of skin on my ankle. I decided it was time to act and got prescribed with a surgical stocking. That has improved the skin immensely, and although still fatter than the other ankle isn't too bad. I tried the massage technique but didn't get very far with it, the stocking is far more effective.

You sound as though you have only recently got over the operation. Although I recovered well, I had all sorts of pains for quite a while afterwards. It felt as if something was crawling under my skin, but having had shingles beforehand I knew that was nerves knitting back together. It all takes time, and you just have to do what your body tells you to. Rest if you need to and don't push yourself. Good luck with the chemo.xx

Hello Jkg

I am sorry to hear that you are still having pain and that the consultant thinks it could be due to lymphoedema. 

There is a forum on here for people that have lymphoedema so I wonder whether it would be worth you having a look to see if they can give you support with any exercises or massage. They may have some practical advice too.

Lymphoedema forum - Macmillan Online Community

I will also pop a link to the Macmillan lymphoedema booklet in case it may help.

Understanding lymphoedema | Booklet | Macmillan Cancer Support

Am sorry that you are having such a tough time at the moment but I hope the above info may help a bit. I wish you the best for your chemo and if there is anything you need please do ask. I had chemo for my womb cancer May22-August22 and am happy to answer any questions you have. 

Jane

Thank you Jane