How to Prevent Infections During Breast Cancer

[@juaquiene7726]

At first I thought the, swelling, soreness & sensitivity. Was what was part & parcel after lumpectomy surgery. Ir was a nasty infection brewing. Warranting a visit to the emergency room. My breast burst open at the incision site oozing blood, puss and viscid fluid. This bought me back to the surgeon who did the surgery. After starting antibiotics. Find out my margins weren't clear. I'd be needing a 2nd surgery. Thankfully he cleaned up the infection. Not so thankfully. My breast was left looking a mauled mess. Theres nothing pretty or easy dealing with breast cancer. It's a hideous merciless disease. Only by educating yourself. Will you come to grips with what your going to be in for.

[@yerbba]

Sounds like you had a really difficult time. You are right, breast cancer is dreadful. It's important, however, for people to find hope. We hope that our work can provide some hope.

[@CGyog]

I’m dealing with a post-mastectomy infection myself - not fun. I am sorry you have gone through that, & send you best wishes for healing & no more complications!!! It is a horrible disease

[@juaquiene7726]

@@CGyog We shouldn't pass by one another. Without acknowledging that we're having to deal with a disease. That we need to gather all the help and support. We can get. It seems a lot of cancer therapies. Messes with ones immune system. So no surprise we can end up with infections. Especially in the areas where you've had surgery or radiation treatment. Just another side effects. Some of us seem to suffer. Perhaps this should be another topic. We women should be aware of. Mine all occured in the post surgical Seromas. I hope you were able to deal with your infection. Before it blew up and got out of hand. As they can get serious very quickly. Best wishes, & prayers!

[@stchannel2476]

This is a very interesting video. During chemo I was advised to use a baby toothbrush coz my gums were so sensitive. I was advised to wear a mask after my surgery during the whole cancer treatment ( even during Radiation/chemo). This was before the pandemic but I live in Japan so we have a custom of wearing masks. But wearing a mask on the crowded train during the summertime commuting to chemo and Radiation was murder cuz it was so hot. The doctors were really strict about wearing the masks. I had monstrous fevers during chemo so wearing a mask was good. Even after my mastectomy (2nd b. cancer surgery)last year I am still in my mask. The Covid is spreading in Japan again now but my mask stays on. Gargling and hand washing/ sterilizing is very important. Thank you for the great videos.I just remembered that during chemo the doctor told me not to eat sushi and I forgot and bought sushi for dinner that night and I had really bad diarrhea. There’s a reason for everything.

[@yerbba]

Thank you for sharing your experience and insights. It sounds like you've navigated through your cancer treatment journey with resilience and adaptability, despite facing challenges like wearing masks and managing sensitive gums. Wishing you continued strength and well-being on your journey.

[@Mabel-wi6fy]

Castor oil poltis or cloth . worn inside bra or near surgery site helped with swelling and skin breakout at incision❤

[@yerbba]

Thank you for sharing your tip! Castor oil can indeed be soothing and may help with swelling and skin irritation after surgery.

[@adriennekushner2492]

I had to shower the night before using a special wash and again the morning of my mastectomy. They said to put on clean pyjamas and fresh sheets on the bed.

[@yerbba]

These are great suggestions. Thanks for sharing.

[@juanitagee9511]

I have a question... I had lumpectomy surgery 10 yrs ago & last summer I spent a lot of time in the pool swimming - did use spf 30 on surgery site but I ended up with a infection - doctors still don't know what caused it or why but I have have a good size hole in my breast right where the lumpectomy incision is for a year now (I did spend 4 days in the hospital) & now see an infectious wound doctor every 2-3 weeks... I can't help but wonder if this might have happened due to having surgery then Radiation to that site - is it possible that the sun exposure to that area could have caused what happened? Thank you in advance. Juanita

[@yerbba]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I recall you telling us about that non-healing wound. What a nuisance that it's become a part of your life. It is highly unlikely that sun exposure has contributed to the problem you're facing. Wishing you all the best.

[@lanacampbell-moore6686]

Thank You!

[@yerbba]

You're welcome!