Post lymph node removal...really need input, swelling - Lymphomas Message Board

hsanthuff · 12-06-2007, 04:15 AM

Hi everyone. I am going to make this short because I feel terrible. I had a couple lymph nodes removed from my neck 2 days ago and ever since have been SO swollen. My throat, behing my ear and lower part of my face is swollen. It hurts to swallow, lay down, turn my head, etc. I did not realize i would feel this bad after such a simple procedure. My neck looks and feels like I have swolled something larger than a golf ball. I called the dr and he said it was probably normal but I could go to ER if really concerned. Does this sound normal to you? Thanks

singer78 · 12-06-2007, 08:08 AM

What are you taking for it?
You should've been given some good med's to alleviate any pain.

I had one removed from the collarbone area month's ago, and it was a lot harder than I expected. I'm still experiencing pain...
There's always going to be swelling---maybe call your doctor and see if cool compresses would help, or maybe he should prescribe something different for you (if what you're taking is not working).
Sometimes these doctors need to be prodded a bit.
Good luck.
Keep us posted.
S.

Bofonic · 12-06-2007, 10:24 PM

If its Red and Swollen there's a chance it might be infected. In that case I'd definitely see a doctor about that to see if you need anti-biotics.

After my removal I was lucky all I had was a really big bandage and some stitches over it but it didn't hurt too much. Especially if its spreading I would be concerned.

Go see your doctor! and get better!

hsanthuff · 12-08-2007, 07:32 AM

Thank you both for your responses. I dont know what to think...I certainly did not anitcipate being in this much pain 5 days post surgery. It is not red or oozing anything. It just so bruised and swollen. My entire neck all the way to my ear is one giant bruise. My ear feels like its going to explode from all the pressure of the swelling. The dr says its normal to have all this swelling post-op but if it gets to the point where I can breathe or talk or gets red then go to ER. I will be seeing him Monday. My swelling hasnt went down at all. I have used ice packs 1000 times. Also, one more question...he put 3 pieces of tape over my incision. I called the hospital and asked if I was supposed to remove that with the dressing and was told NO only the dressing and this tape would come off on its own probably in the shower sometime. Should I be concerned that my tape is still there? Can this make it more likely to become infected? It doesnt want to come off and I dont want to pull on my stitches. Thanks for listening to me ramble.

singer78 · 12-08-2007, 01:15 PM

That tape is supposed to stay there...
It's almost like double 'stitches' in a way.
I never thought mine would come off, they adhere like a second skin--which is a good thing. The last thing you want, is for your incision to be exposed to infection.
Are you feeling any better?
S.