What Causes Pain Under My Left Arm After A Lumpectomy?

Posted on Tue, 25 Mar 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 25 Mar 2014 Answered on

Mon, 14 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I had a lumpectomy a year ago. Dcis non invasive nodes negative radiation for one week. Tamoxifen for six months. I went to the oncologist in February and she felt my underarm and breast and said not to see her for six months. Had mamo and ultrasound in November and they don't want to see me for a year. My question is one week after I saw the oncologist I have pain under my left arm. I'm worried and I can't go see the doctor until after April 1st because I don't have insurance until then. I don't feel any lumps and nothing is swollen. The pain comes and goes and it hurts when I drink something cold.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (2 hours later)

Brief Answer: Nothing worrisome,possible muscular pain... Detailed Answer: Hi, I have gone through your medical history and understood your concerns. If your oncologist felt your underarm and breast and everything was ok, then, you should not be worried about. If the pain has started 1 week after you saw your oncologist, then, might be due to muscular pain. Can have a pain-killer to reduce pain and apply warm clothing and/or analgesic cream to the pain area until the next appointment in April. In case the pain will get severer, then, should schedule an emergency appointment with your doctor. Otherwise, nothing worrisome. God bless you! Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (3 hours later)

Thank you Dr. Albana. The pain is not constant and its like a burning pain but not enough to take pain meds. Its like spasams and then it goes away. I feel around and there is nothing swollen so maybe it is muscular and its not always in the same place.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (9 hours later)

Brief Answer: Avoid cold drinks/other triggering factors... Detailed Answer: Hi my dear, Take some chamomile tea and avoid cold drinks that triggers it. All the best! Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar