I agree with Lynn. Please talk to your medical team about the risks. If you can see a lymphedema specialist, she will educate you about this. They are commonly physical therapists who go for additional training, though anyone in the medical field can obtain the necessary training to become a lymphedema specialist. I have lymphedema. I had a slight case in the affected arm (upper portion) and 2 years later got bit by an insect while sleeping and now have lymphedema in the entire arm. I wore a sleeve for a year and now bandage every night instead of wearing the sleeve. Sometimes in the beginning, lymphedema can be reversed, so if you have any swelling in that arm, I would suggest seeing a specialist ASAP. After my insect bite, I waited several weeks to see her and now I'll never know if that would have made a difference. That being said, even if you do get lymphedema, it is very manageable, just an annoyance. The only time it lowers your risk of infection is if you're stage 3, which would only happen if you ignored the condition for several years. Hope that helps. Hugs & prayers, Mary
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