I was diagnosed with stage 1 estrogen receptor positive breast cancer in Oct of 2011. Nov 29, 2011 I had a left lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy. I had 7 lymph nodes removed all negative.
Around Feb I noticed that if I carried anything in my left arm even though it was less than 10 pounds there would be indentations and impression marks. It seemed my left arm was bigger than my right. I am a retired nurse. I had my husband measure both arms and my left was an inch greater in diameter. I called the National Lymphedema Assoc who referred me to my radiation oncologist. I did receive brachytherapy for one week twice a day. Dec 5-12th of 2011. He gave me an order for physical therapy. I went for 6 weeks twice a week and had massage and compression bandaging. It also was a stage 1 lymphedema and through treatment was reduced twelve percent. I then got a compression garment for 112 dollars from Bioconcepts. These devices only last about 6 months. I have since purchased a 2nd one, neither covered by Blue Cross/ Anthem. When speaking with a social worker she gave me some alternate numbers for coverage. Insurance company said I could put in an appeal which as of this date have not done.
I feel lymphedema is real and not explained well enough preop. If I had known this would have opted for no lymph node removal. Lymphedema was as difficult to deal with as breast cancer. I am grateful my breast cancer was caught early and that I am alive today.
