CommunitiesIn Treatment For Breast CancerIs Prolonged Pain After Lymph Node Biopsy Normal?

Is Prolonged Pain After Lymph Node Biopsy Normal?

DK

Community Member

a year ago

I was diagnosed with DCIS stage zero in Dec 2020, medium grade ER positive cells. After several consultations, I had a bilateral mastectomy and sentinel node biopsy with immediate diep flap reconstruction in Feb 2021. No chemo, no radiation. The doc actually took 7 lymph nodes because when she got in there, 3 were enlarged. All turned out negative/clear. This is my question however. 3 + years later I continue to have burning, shooting pains in the node biopsy area. Is that unusual?

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Prolonged pain after lymph node biopsy can happen and affects some patients for months or even years after surgery. The nerves in that area can be sensitive after the procedure, especially when multiple nodes were removed. This type of burning or shooting pain has been experienced by others in the community, so these concerns are completely understandable. Consider discussing these ongoing symptoms with the medical team, as there may be options to help manage the discomfort.

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ME

Community Member

6 months ago

Hi Danielle. I would say yes, that it can be normal. If you haven't already I weeks check in with a doctor to see what they say though. Many years ago I had elective surgery with complications. I sustained nerve damage as a result. The pain from the nerves was pretty bad for a while. The pain lasted at least 18 months if not 2 years or longer. Having 7 nodes out could cause enough nerve damage that would make sense that you are having pain 3 years later. I read that anywhere for 2 to 5 years is possible. I'm curious what a doctor would say.

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Prolonged pain after lymph node biopsy can happen and affects some patients for months or even years after surgery. The nerves in that area can be sensitive after the procedure, especially when multiple nodes were removed. This type of burning or shooting pain has been experienced by others in the community, so these concerns are completely understandable. Consider discussing these ongoing symptoms with the medical team, as there may be options to help manage the discomfort.

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