nerve damage after lymph node removal?

[DG88]

A little over two weeks ago, I had a lymph node removed from under my right arm. It was benign. The incision area does not bother me but I have this searing pain from my shoulder down the underside of my arm to my elbow.  It is painful to the touch. I called my surgeon and he pretty much said my options are to wait and see if it feels better or I could have an ultrasound to see if a fluid pocket had formed. At that point he said he would drain it. I am unsure as to what to do. On one hand, the pain is such that I can only wear loose fitting clothes; anything that touches my underarm is like rubbing a very bad sunburn. I would still be willing to wait two more weeks if I knew that this was normal and there is a good chance it would heal. I also am not happy with this outcome and fear any more intrusions unless absolutely necessary. I feel that my surgeon has left me in the air. Can anyone offer me help with my decision?

[DG88]

Thanks to both of you for your replies! What a great resource this is! I have decided to give it two more weeks as it seems that this is more common than I had thought. Thanks again for taking the time to help me. DG88

[katarina777]

I remember having that burning sensation after my surgery, and which also involved removal of the lymph nodes. if I were you, I would wait. I remember for me it got better with time and it was the worst at about two weeks. In the very first beginning after surgery I didn't have this, of I recall correctly.

[Darleneg60]

Thank you. I'm two weeks in from Mastectomy and lymph node removal.  Pain is bad like raw nerves. I am hoping after reading your comment it gets better with time. Thank you

[Sara_MHModerator]

Hello, Darleng60.  We hope you are slowly starting to feel better.  We are here to support you.

[japdip]

Anytime the lymphatic system is disturbed symptoms can occur. I have similar symptoms but had several nodes removed several years ago in conjunction with breast surgery. Since this has only been two weeks the feeling may well subside in time. I see no reason why you shouldn't have an Ultrasound since that was an option given you by your Surgeon. There is also the possibility of Lymphedema which occurs sometimes with the disturbance of the lymphatic flow. I don't know that your Surgeon has left you "hanging" ... this may not be a surgical problem even though it may be the result of surgery. You could see your Primary Care Physician and get his/her opinoin regarding this. Waiting a couple weeks would be OK too if you're willing to do so.   Good Luck ....