Lymph Nodes

[nohorn]

Someone told me that if you have had lymph nodes removed underneath your arm that you should never have and IV in that arm or have you blood pressure taken underneath your arm. Is that true?

[nohorn]

I meant "on that arm" not underneath that arm.

[Sqad]

No...sorry....never heard of that.
Can't see why it should be.

[Arrods]

OH was told by her nursing team to avoid any chance of getting infections in her arm following lymph node removal. Also told not to have intravenous drips/BP in that arm. Could lead to lymphodoema.

[ducksie]

I've had lymph nodes removed and can't have IV, canulae, or BP taken from that arm because he could get Lymphodema,I C&P this bit "Lymphodema is a chronic condition that is caused by a disruption or damage to the normal drainage pattern in the lymph nodes. It most often causes swelling of the arm, but it can also affect the breast, chest, and sometimes even the legs. The swelling, caused by an abnormal collection of too much fluid, is called lymphedema. Removing the axillary lymph nodes increases your risk for developing lymphedema." but I didn't heed the good doctors warning and now have Lymphodema and it's ever so painfull

[ducksie]

lost a sentence there - meant to say, because I had lymph nodes removed and he was told protect that arm because he ....

[slaney]

It is generally advised to avoid if possible but..
"Very little published data are available to document the exact risk of lymphedema from performing blood pressure readings, blood draws and injections on the affected extremity. Lack of research and normal variations in each individual’s lymphatic system (numbers or sizes of lymph nodes) make it difficult to quantify personal risk from each triggering factor.

While further research is needed, healthcare professionals are encouraged to minimize the risk of lymphedema by taking blood pressure readings, blood draws and injections on the non-affected limb whenever possible."

[nohorn]

Thank you all for answering. Gave me much information.