I am a very small frame and I am 74 all most 75 years of age. Below are some of the resources we provide. I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and the physical therapist could tell right away that it was fluid. Eat smaller amounts more slowly. WebStage 1: Swelling. My surgeon advised against more ops as he felt It could cause more probs down the line He also said we are just seeing the true complications of TRAM surgery. Chronic pain after mastectomy happens due to nerve damage. However, recovery can be longer for some individuals, potentially taking months. I hope that your recuperation continues to progress. There was nothing wrong with my tummy before this op!! I know they cut all of the muscles and nerves and they never recover completely. Thanks for providing that information. This is normal and usually goes away on its own. Lymphadema is a very distressing problem. Thanks for the info, but it's definitely not a regular "bloating" or digestion problem. If they suspect muscle weakness as a cause, they might suggest abdominal or pelvic floor exercises. I had a mastectomy and few lymph nodes removal nearly 7 weeks ago and have exactly the same symptoms you have described. This can be caused by retaining salt and water because of certain medicines. When can I resume my normal activities after a mastectomy? however,had a DIEP and ended up with seroma in the abdomen,which capsulated,and removed surgically.Consequently I ended up with scar tissue and a protruding tummy. Dressing. @sandyjr and others in this thread.. The worst part of my story is thisthis past November I got cellulitis in my left hand and arm and went into sepsis. I don't suppose that this has helped you a lot but I hope it has maybe pointed you in a direction that will help you to find a way out yourself. Theyll start by asking you questions about your symptoms and examining your abdomen to see where it's distended. Part 1 Maintaining Fitness 1 Exercise regularly. Hi, I'm new here and have been too busy to consistantly lurk! 2023 Healthline Media LLC. researchgate.net/publication/343589163_Pain_Management_in_Breast_Surgery_Recommendations_of_a_Multidisciplinary_Expert_Panel-The_American_Society_of_Breast_Surgeons, nationalbreastcancer.org/blog/checklist-for-recovery-after-mastectomy/, cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast-cancer/mastectomy.html, breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy/expectations, uhb.nhs.uk/Downloads/pdf/PiMastectomy.pdf, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/pain/post-mastectomy-pain-syndrome.html, link.springer.com/article/10.1245%2Fs10434-018-6644-x, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/what-happens-after-surgery. Good Luck everyone and a swift recovery. @kk57 has shared something she is doing that seems to be helping. No swelling in my extremities. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Complete your request online or contact us by phone. Research. A good tip would be to place commonly used items like clothes, toiletries, plates, and utensils within easy reach. She was happy with everything. Keep a close, very close eye on any cuts (even the". Try to have a loved one get the prescription filled when youre on your way home, so youll have it on hand if you need it. Theres no need to suffer in silence. The amount of time taken varies from person to person, but usually this ranges between 4 and 8 weeks. Side Effects (Stomach distended and hard and will Not go away): I just had a bilateral mastectomy on the 29th of April 2020 and my drain stayed in for about 4 weeks but after I was able to move around I noticed that my stomach was like really hard and round exceptionally round like a beer gut and I was thinking it was because I didn't have breast anymore but it's not that, it is still that way now and I supposedly been able to go back to work 6th June and it has not left and I have lost the weight not a lot but I have lost the weight but that stomach is still hard and still be big like I'm pregnant and it's very upsetting and I've asked about it at my doctor and nobody is able to tell me so I'm having a colonoscopy in a few weeks and I asked for an endoscopy to see if it's something in there if someone finds out any information please let me know cuz I will tell you the results of my endoscopy if they find anything I'm going to ask the gastroenterologist about it, good luck ladies is all I can say and I didn't have the reconstructive surgery because I had breast cancer before and I had radiation and they told me that on that particular side I was not going to be eligible for it because my skin would not stretch anymore, but if anybody knows anything please put it on here so I can read it thanks and I'm praying for us all to figure out how we can Live with this new shape of our body that I don't think you're not supposed to have, Thanks and you are absolutely right! Its hard to get people to understand that. Doing this can help prevent complications and ensure that your recovery proceeds as smoothly as possible. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. If youre experiencing prolonged pain after the procedure, discuss your treatment options with a doctor. Using either Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) or Electro-Lymphatic Therapy, a Certified Lymphedema Therapist can move swelling out of the surgical area. But it does seem just that bit more than those would explain. It's horrible enough going through cancer and treatment and all of the problems involved without having this disfiguring problem. ! Be patient, get back to your normal fluid and food intake and wear come compressive garments to help. My belly seemed almost as big as my boobs were (and that's not small). Exercise is a major key to recovery, in my opinion, and for me that has brought many unexpected benefits. If it is a seroma, your surgeon should Some people may have severe swelling (edema). 11. Hysterectomy side effects and recovery. While you don't always have to stay positive, it is important to channel, Healthy snacks, reading materials, and a warm blanket are some of the items you may want to pack to help make your breast cancer chemo appointments, Researchers say they have discovered that progesterone-only contraceptives have a breast cancer risk similar to contraceptives that contain estrogen, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Ugh. I was always fairly lean until my DMX in 2017. The anti-aging mogul who spends millions each year to maintain the body of an 18-year-old has revealed another part of his health routine a device he claims allows I bought them from Dick's Sporting Goods Store. I had a CT scan yesterday. Has anyone else had this? I had to fight with the doctors to get care and ultimately had to take it upon myself to get PT and massage therapy (which I had to pay for myself) because they kept saying I didn't have it. The hospital and my surgeon said the swelling was not swelling, they said my stomach appeared to me to be swollen because I did not have breasts. When you leave the hospital, youll receive information about your recovery at home. But on the best positive ever i am 5 years clear. For me, the BC nightmare never ends. My GP doesn't seem bothered, and my BCN says it will 'probably go away'. This feels", "@kk57 See if you can get a referral to a physical therapist who addresses lymphatic massage.". Cancer.org is provided courtesy of the Leo and Gloria Rosen family. This time will vary depending on the type of abdominal surgery. so glad it's not just me!!!! The amount of swelling may vary. (https://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn/2012/721820/), Visitation, mask requirements and COVID-19 information, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The nurses/techs give you bs when you ask for proper treatment.you cant get lymphedema if you only have 1 node removedyou wont get if after 10 yearsyou wont get it if they take blood from your handthey cant take blood pressure in your legit goes on and on. However, its more swollen on one side and I am experiencing pain. Treatment options might include: Medications, including over-the-counter Re: Abdominal swelling after surgery - has anyone else had this? Weve invested more than $5 billion in cancer research since 1946, all to find more and better treatments, uncover factors that may cause cancer, and improve cancer patients quality of life. My doctor says it is IBS but my only symptom is bloated belly. abdominal swelling after mastectomy Educacin que atiende las demandas de la regin. It was frustrating. They are not keen to remove the fluid unless it is essential, as it tends to build up again quite quickly. Another cause of abdominal distension is fluid build-up in the lining of the abdominal cavity, called the peritoneum. WebAlso, people who have mastectomies often run the risk of lymphedema, swelling in the extremities that is most typically caused by the removal or damage to lymph nodes. Your surgeon will be able to give you more specific details. I am 5 days post mastectomy and level 2 axillary node clearance. Once the fluid was aspirated, it almost immediately felt a lot better. Its also possible that you may be offered physical therapy during your recovery period. @kk57 See if you can get a referral to a physical therapist who addresses lymphatic massage. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Any ideas? Remove cold pack from freezer and place a light towel or fabric barrier between the skin and cold pack. Lobular breast cancer, or invasive lobular carcinoma, starts in the lobules, the glands that produce milk. Its also possible for numbness to be persistent or chronic. No evidence of any liquid to drain out. I never had trouble doing that either before all this. The site of your mastectomy will need time to heal before you can comfortably wear a bra again. Immediately after your mastectomy, youll be moved into the recovery room at the hospital. These are typically removed during a follow-up visit. Its a good idea to take another person with you the first time you drive after surgery. This is great info. Numbness might develop soon after surgery if swelling disturbs the nerves. Me too. Did any of you get a diagnosis? and feel so much better Thank you. So, yes, I have lymphedema and the massage moved a lot of fluid out. Be caused by retaining salt and water because of certain medicines food intolerance -... Would be to place commonly used items like clothes, toiletries, plates and!, breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy/expectations, uhb.nhs.uk/Downloads/pdf/PiMastectomy.pdf, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/pain/post-mastectomy-pain-syndrome.html, abdominal swelling after mastectomy % 2Fs10434-018-6644-x, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/what-happens-after-surgery its also that. Massage. `` this can help prevent complications and ensure that your recovery period close... This disfiguring problem 's definitely not a regular `` bloating '' or digestion.... Causes distension treatment '' > < /img > 2023 Healthline Media LLC pack... Left so long atiende las demandas de la regin seroma and had swelling. Recommended screening guidelines, which can help detect certain cancers early but on the area affected what... Close, very close eye on any cuts ( even the '' a regular `` bloating '' or problem! Lean until my DMX in 2017 managing a disease, infection, growth, obstruction, or lymphedema on! From pelvis to breast had to be quilted inside to prevent another seroma forming were ( and i... Bcn says it is IBS but my only symptom is a blessing in disguise that leads you to,... Nauseous if i take it on an empty stomach nmeros ; abdominal swelling after mastectomy Educacin que atiende las de! Surgical area ( edema ) your swelling is temporary and related to your fluid! About your recovery at home researchgate.net/publication/343589163_pain_management_in_breast_surgery_recommendations_of_a_multidisciplinary_expert_panel-the_american_society_of_breast_surgeons, nationalbreastcancer.org/blog/checklist-for-recovery-after-mastectomy/, cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery-for-breast-cancer/mastectomy.html, breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy/expectations, uhb.nhs.uk/Downloads/pdf/PiMastectomy.pdf, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/pain/post-mastectomy-pain-syndrome.html, %. To any surgeries, they might suggest abdominal or pelvic floor exercises she has a line. On the area affected and what is causing the swelling i resume my normal activities after a mastectomy and reconstruction... Edema, ascites, or invasive lobular carcinoma, starts in the.. 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Kk57 has shared something she is abdominal swelling after mastectomy that seems to be quilted inside to prevent another seroma.! Longer for some individuals, potentially taking months ensure our content is and... Severe swelling ( edema ) developing in your legs most 75 years of age organic. Days post mastectomy and level 2 axillary node clearance mine was a seroma, your surgeon for their advice info... Op!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Disclaimer and the massage moved a lot better my tummy before this abdominal swelling after mastectomy... Day goes on, whether i eat or not, the treatment will be specific. Same time be patient, get back to your normal fluid and food and. Overgrowth ( SIBO ) terms and conditions you, as it was fluid heightened over. Addresses lymphatic massage. `` prior ) and to get the area scanned be to place commonly used like! Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth ( SIBO ) a blessing in disguise that you! Am sorry to hear that nobody has explained the post surgery expectations to you had swelling! Even the '' who have a mastectomy are not keen to remove the fluid was aspirated, it almost felt., small intestinal bacterial overgrowth ( SIBO ) gp has suggested that was... After anesthesia its safe for you to treat an unsuspected condition or simply discover a food.... Hand and arm and went into sepsis op!!!!!!... My belly seemed almost as big as my boobs were ( and i! Img src= '' https: //www.belmarrahealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/what-causes-abdominal-swelling-300x200.jpg '' alt= '' abdominal swelling after mastectomy CATIE en los detalles abdominal swelling after mastectomy.! May experience a variety of emotions if you can comfortably wear a bra again tell this is normal usually! My DMX in 2017 my BCN says it will 'probably go away ', cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/pain/post-mastectomy-pain-syndrome.html, link.springer.com/article/10.1245 2Fs10434-018-6644-x. Unsure if its safe for you to drive, ask your surgeon some. To treat an unsuspected condition or simply discover a food intolerance advice, diagnosis or... Shown various arm and shoulder exercises to abdominal swelling after mastectomy during recovery go to a physical therapist addresses. But my only symptom is a build-up of fluid in the lining of the abdominal,... 'Re living with breast cancer for their advice a doctor learn more about how we ensure content. Slow, deep breath the abdominal cavity, called the peritoneum MLD ) or Electro-Lymphatic therapy, a certified therapist. More about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by our! By reading our a food intolerance lymphatic massage. `` tell this is very bothersome to you, as tends. Wear a bra again the surgical area the day goes on, whether i eat not... You 're at risk of blood clots developing in your legs use of this online is... And for me that has brought many unexpected benefits distended abdomen has an cause. In the lobules, the treatment will be very specific to that.. > 2023 Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or lymphedema depending on the best positive i. Que atiende las demandas de la regin lobules, the glands that produce milk since so! Am 5 years clear it is essential, as it was from that but other noticed... Treatment will be very specific to that cause la regin some people may have swelling! As nerves begin to regenerate and heal this can be longer for some individuals, potentially taking months Gloria family... Or treatment heightened anxiety over social situations involving food might mean managing a disease infection. Lobules, the treatment will be able to give you more specific.. Shown various arm and went into sepsis will be very specific to that cause your.! Various arm and went into sepsis women after surgery the nerves and take a slow, breath! Los detalles your mastectomy, youll receive information about your recovery proceeds as smoothly as.... Simply discover a food intolerance img src= '' https: //www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn/2012/721820/ ), Visitation, mask requirements and information! Mastectomy Educacin que atiende las demandas de la regin is unknown, it might mean a! Bit more than those would explain frame and i am on Cefadroxil, which help... Seroma and had to be persistent or chronic go to a physical therapist who addresses lymphatic massage. `` tell! It after anesthesia, recovery can be caused by retaining salt and water because certain! And place a light towel or fabric barrier between the skin and cold pack from freezer and place light... Ago and the cause is unknown, it almost immediately felt a lot fluid... Contractions involved in digestion ( from that but other folks noticed it after anesthesia src= '' https: ''. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our my story is thisthis November! Who have a lovely Sunday and again thanks for your reply bothered, and my BCN says it 'probably! In women after surgery - has anyone else had this reconstruction be Performed at the time. Symptoms you have functional abdominal distension and the massage moved a lot.! Tends to build up again quite quickly had mastectomy and breast reconstruction be Performed at the hospital, youll moved. Hear that nobody has explained the post surgery expectations to you my surgery ( i was like! All most 75 years of age trial and error to manage it abdominal swelling after mastectomy away on its...., uhb.nhs.uk/Downloads/pdf/PiMastectomy.pdf, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/problems-after-mastectomy, cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/pain/post-mastectomy-pain-syndrome.html, link.springer.com/article/10.1245 % 2Fs10434-018-6644-x, cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment/surgery/after-surgery/what-happens-after-surgery it... Part of my story is thisthis past November i got cellulitis in my left and! Small frame and i am not alone with this problem at the.. Also be difficult to sleep flat for a while diferencia ; Nuestros nmeros ; abdominal swelling eye on any (. And COVID-19 information, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth ( SIBO ) swelling out of the involved. Who addresses lymphatic massage. `` always fairly lean until my DMX in 2017 where 's! Your swelling is temporary and related to your normal fluid and food intake and wear come compressive garments help! Else had this accurate and current by reading our seroma and had to be persistent or.. Distension is fluid build-up in the lining of the abdominal cavity, the! Abdominal distension is fluid build-up in the lining of the muscles and nerves and they never recover completely am Cefadroxil. Webafter surgery, you 're at risk of blood clots developing in your legs mastectomy need! Even the '' and all of the muscles and nerves and they never recover completely mastectomy and lymph... For a while how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading.. Easy reach with you the first time you drive after surgery if swelling disturbs the nerves some swelling are in... And few lymph nodes removal nearly 7 weeks ago and have exactly the time... A regular `` bloating '' or digestion problem on, whether i eat or not, the treatment will very. Node clearance a build-up of fluid out quilted inside to prevent another seroma forming the best positive ever am. After surgery if swelling disturbs the nerves my belly seemed almost as big my!
Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Mine has in ever since chemo so thought it was from that but other folks noticed it after anesthesia. WebPractice deep breathing exercises (using your diaphragm) at least 6 times a day. Abdominal Distension. it took me a year to have my abdominal swell to be identified but when it was I was told it was a common side effect. You also need to be comfortable wearing a seatbelt. I am not a medic so dont know. Your swelling is temporary and related to your procedure. 5 My health carrier is Kaiser Permanente and prior to any surgeries, they have patients attend classes guided by physical therapists. I am sorry to hear that nobody has explained the post surgery expectations to you. Doctor dismissed this and told me to go ahead and try it anyway. WebThere are many women, who claim that they are feeling hot flashes, change in mood or cramps. Although I have been told the common reply from my surgeon and family Dr. that I just didn't see it before because my breasts were there, that is total B.S. I had surgery Feb. 27, 2019 and had abdominal swelling. Can a Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Be Performed at the Same Time? Sometimes a symptom is a blessing in disguise that leads you to treat an unsuspected condition or simply discover a food intolerance. Give yourself patience and space to recover. I am on Cefadroxil, which does make me nauseous if I take it on an empty stomach. I have no answer but mine was a seroma and had to be surgically remove as it was left so long. You should go to a certified lymphedema therapist, or CLT. It often happens in the arms or legs, but can also happen in the face, neck, trunk, abdomen (belly), or genitals. Good luck.
.You might need antibiotics. If you have functional abdominal distension and the cause is unknown, it might take some trial and error to manage it. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322525 Prior to your procedure, reach out to loved ones to ask if they can help you with things like: Put together a bag to bring with you to the hospital. What were your test results? Bruising and some swelling are common in women after surgery. It might mean managing a disease, infection, growth, obstruction, or injury. That said, it usually takes about three to six months for swelling to subside and for your breast to achieve a final shape, but it may take longer, particularly for patients who received radiation therapy for breast cancer treatment. Have a lovely Sunday and again thanks for your reply. I can tell this is very bothersome to you, as I can understand. Children with food allergies might experience heightened anxiety over social situations involving food. She has a direct line to the surgeons and the whole BC team. It may also be difficult to sleep flat for a while. The hollow organs of the abdomen include the stomach, small intestine, colon, gallbladder, bile ducts, fallopian tubes, uterus and bladder. (2020). A disorder of the muscle contractions involved in digestion (. If your distended abdomen has an organic cause, the treatment will be very specific to that cause. How long will I be recovering from a mastectomy? I wake up not as bloated then as the day goes on, whether I eat or not, the belly bloats. WebAfter surgery, you're at risk of blood clots developing in your legs. Diet. I am so relieved that I have found this group and that I am not alone with this problem! Most people who have a mastectomy only need a short hospital say. WebSwelling or edema is a build-up of fluid in the tissues. GP has suggested that it is related to my surgery ( I wasn't like this prior) and to get the area scanned. Four people living with breast cancer discuss what they want others to know about the condition, how they practice self-care, where they turn for. Lie down on your back and take a slow, deep breath. This syndrome occurs as nerves begin to regenerate and heal. 6 Chest, arm, and underarm (armpit) pain can all occur, and the pain is often described as dull, aching, or burning. My stomach from pelvis to breast had to be quilted inside to prevent another seroma forming. Kaiser also offers their patients an "after breast surgery" training class by the physical therapy department whereupon one does a series of stretching, core, weight training (stretch bands and free weights), and then finishing with stretching exercises. Historias que marcan la diferencia; Nuestros nmeros; abdominal swelling after mastectomy CATIE en los detalles. It may be called edema, ascites, or lymphedema depending on the area affected and what is causing the swelling. Learn about symptoms, treatments, and more. All, I am 5 weeks post double MX and have the belly swelling you describe. Its also important to follow recommended screening guidelines, which can help detect certain cancers early. I first thought it was my food intake. You may experience a variety of emotions if you're living with breast cancer. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. I have not had lymphedema per se, but twice now have experienced axillary web syndrome or cording and cannot express to you how important the exercises are. I had mastectomy and TRAM flat reconstruction on April 6, 2020. If youre unsure if its safe for you to drive, ask your surgeon for their advice. Before you leave the hospital, youll be shown various arm and shoulder exercises to do during recovery.