Hi Leesa, If you suspect the swelling is lymphoedema, then check with the following:
The Lymphoedema Association of Queensland
Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA)
Australian Lymphoedema Support Groups
From one of these sites, "Early signs and symptoms of lymphoedema can be intermittent and may include:
- transient swelling of a limb or other region of the body
- Infection (due to lymph stasis) is often the first sign of a problem
- feelings of aching, heaviness, stiffness in the affected body part
limitation of movement
- tightness or temperature changes to areas of the body
- clothing, jewellery or shoes may feel tighter
- swelling may be aggravated by heat, overuse, sustained positions and prolonged
- inactivity and be more obvious at the end of the day"
March is lymphoedema awareness month, so now is a good time to get help.
All the best with the Rx treatment, symptoms don't usually occur before the 2nd week. It's a tough road ahead, but do whatever you can to maintain nutrition. Hospitals & chemists have a Nestle Product called Resource Plus, its a 360 calorie lactose free drink in a 8fl oz package, bit like Sanitariums Up&Go drinks. If you need strong pain medication and have problems with constipation, ask for Targin. It's still not on the PBS (cost was about $3.50/day) and unknown to many doctors, but provides strong pain relief without some of the side effects.
