I have found a new lymphedema specialist. She has trained in Germany, among other locations, and she is supposed to be the best in Louisville. Her name is Candy. She examined me and told me exactly what was going on in my lymph system and why I was having pain. I cried, because she was the first healthcare professional who "got it" concerning my chest and trunk pain. She told me no guarantees, but she thought she could help me feel better than I do now. I will have several massage sessions in order to move the lymphatic fluid away from where it is congested. She already taught me a couple of massage techniques that have had amazing results in a short amount of time. I will need compression for my entire trunk, and she will help me measure for that. I will continue therapy in the pool, although I found out that I cannot go into the warmer pool because my arm swells. The other pool is VERY cold, but I feel great after a therapy session. I did learn some info that scared me. Candy is very concerned that lymphedema may develop in my good arm because of the swelling in the trunk. I will do everything I can to keep this from happening. I can no longer have blood pressure or needlesticks, IVs, etc. in either arm. My legs have to be used instead. I will need to wear compression on the left arm to travel or to do housecleaning or any other type of physical work. I cannot lift more than 15 lbs. I need to keep my arm clear of cuts, scratches, etc. and I must avoid the heat, which I already do.
I have to admit I had a good cry when I learned this. I think it will take me a few days to adjust to this new information and be able to move on. My days now are filling with massage therapy at the PTs, water therapy, and home massage. Along with Bible Study and maintaining my home, I am staying busy. I am determined to do the best I can to reverse the swellling in my trunk and to keep my left arm normal. Please pray that I will continue to have the perseverance and strength to fight this, and that I will accept the situation with a good spirit.
Thanks,
Jan
My son, attend to my words; consent and submit to my sayings. Let them not depart from your sight; keep them in the center of your heart. For they are life to those who find them, healing and health to all their flesh. Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 4:20-23
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
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