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What Causes Heaviness In Arms After Removing The Lymph Nodes?
I had breast cancer 7 years ago. Lymph nodes were taken from my left arm. Just within the last few days, I ve felt a heaviness in my arm. So I put on my compression sleeve on. It seemed to help, but then the feeling shifted to my right arm. I do have a lot of stress at work. Could that be the culprit?
Wed, 3 May 2023
Hi,
The heaviness in your arms may be related to the removal of lymph nodes from your left arm. Lymph nodes play an important role in the immune system by filtering out harmful substances and fighting infections. When lymph nodes are removed, it can disrupt the normal flow of lymphatic fluid, which can cause swelling and a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected limb. This condition is known as lymphedema.
It is also possible that your compression sleeve is not fitting properly, which can cause discomfort and exacerbate lymphedema symptoms. You may want to consult with a lymphedema therapist or your doctor to ensure that your compression sleeve is properly sized and fitted.
Stress can also contribute to a feeling of heaviness or tension in the arms and other parts of the body. It is important to manage stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, as well as getting enough rest and exercise.
It is recommended that you discuss your symptoms with your doctor or a lymphedema specialist. They can assess the severity of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as compression therapy, exercise, or manual lymphatic drainage.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
The heaviness in your arms may be related to the removal of lymph nodes from your left arm. Lymph nodes play an important role in the immune system by filtering out harmful substances and fighting infections. When lymph nodes are removed, it can disrupt the normal flow of lymphatic fluid, which can cause swelling and a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected limb. This condition is known as lymphedema.
It is also possible that your compression sleeve is not fitting properly, which can cause discomfort and exacerbate lymphedema symptoms. You may want to consult with a lymphedema therapist or your doctor to ensure that your compression sleeve is properly sized and fitted.
Stress can also contribute to a feeling of heaviness or tension in the arms and other parts of the body. It is important to manage stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, as well as getting enough rest and exercise.
It is recommended that you discuss your symptoms with your doctor or a lymphedema specialist. They can assess the severity of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as compression therapy, exercise, or manual lymphatic drainage.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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