As above I developed lymphedema in my arm on the mastectomy side a few weeks ago.
I saw the lymphedema specialist physio yesterday. She was lovely, did all the measurements and went through the skin care, massage and exercises. She said she would “100%” recommend a compression sleeve and gauntlet.
I was a bit surprised, but she went through all the details with me and I felt ok about it when I was with her, but when I got home I felt quite upset. I couldn’t do a task I’d set myself at home, I was shaking so much, and my stomach churns when I think about it.
I am worried about the practicalities of it, especially washing my hands. It will have separate fingers up to my knuckle.
Using rubber gloves for housework and washing up is easy as is wearing those disposable blue gloves for cooking.
The silly thing is, I went to the hospice cafe after the appointment and managed to get jam on my hands, so just went and washed them. With a sleeve on I couldn’t have done that.
I can see myself not wanting to eat out or just have a casual coffee out, or even wearing a disposable glove when eating at home. I’ll wash it every day of course, but it’s till nagging at me.
I know these sleeves are common enough, and plenty of GNs must have them. How did you get used to them and get used to the practicalities?
I’m also a bit down about having to wear one for the rest of my life. I feel a bit of a wimp as well.
Resoned discussion is not victimisation.
