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lee hoffman
hello, new to community...new to lymphedema. First episode of real edema this weekend. was originally diagnosed by a physiatrist in 2004 and thought she was nuts...wasn't aware of any swelling in arm. She didn't refer me for any treatment, was seeing her about knee pain. So, I didn't think anything about it.
Then in early 2007, after a day of overuse of arm, I developed cellulitis in arm. Sick as a dog. With 4 more episodes of cellulitis since with the last one Nov 2010. Less sever each time. Start antibiotic as soon as I feel the first twinge of familiar tenderness in collarbone. With the cellulitis, Doc surmised that lymphedema was the cause even though there was no visible swelling. He thinks that miniscule breaks in skin caused by lymphedema was the entry point of the bacteria. Again no recommended therapy. And, dumb me, thought it was no big deal.
Then Friday, I began to experience a sensation like IV vein blow-out in my forearm, very tender and unlike any sensation experienced with cellulitis on-set, and was puzzled until my arm swelled up during a drive from md to pa on saturday. It has stabilized, no better and no worst, but I want to get going with some kind of therapy. Haven't even called my GP as I see him as useless regarding this (opinion based on the 5 cellulitis events that he felt was lymphedema related, yet didn't recommend any therapy at any point over the last four years. ) So, I have been trying to educate myself and consequently I have received an eye opening education regarding the need for treatment to stabilize and hopefully keep from progressing. I have been trying to locate a certified lymphedema therapist in my area (Chesapeake's Eastern Shore of Maryland ) and did find ONE, she is LANA certified. But, have been waiting since 8:30am for her to return my call. Actually 3 calls, so I definitely have the idea I need to keep on searching. I am thinking we are very backward here in Talbot County in the area of Lymphedema management.
I am going to be flying in 2 weeks and really want to get this under control before I get on that plane. If anyone has any suggestions for me, I would really appreciate it. Feeling pretty alone in this experience right now. Thanks for reading all this prattle. -Lee PS the affected arm is the result of br ca, with last episode in 1997.
May 23, 2011
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