Topic: High Elevation - sleeve?
- Posted on: Oct 28, 2009 05:07 pm, edited Oct 28, 2009 05:07 PM by judgejaclyn
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 23
Hi:
I apologize if this issue was addressed previously but I could not seem to find it in my search.
I do not have lymphodema - but like many of you are at risk due to node surgery (I am node positive). My axillary dissection surgery went well and the scar has healed nicely. I am travelling From FL (sea level) to Keystone, CO (base at 9600) next month. I have been advised by my onc. to get a compression sleeve 20-30 to wear during the flight. Thankfully I will be able to fly first class so space at least will not be an issue and I can stretch my arm and move it/exercise it during the flight. I will stay hydrated and do not drink any alcohol ever.
I am age 49, 5'7" 108 lbs (underweight and trying to gain) and prior to bc I was very active and athletic, not to mention 11 lbs heavier.
My questions:
(1) I do NOT plan to ski, but the elevation of my home there is 9600. Should I wear the sleeve during the days while in Keystone since I will be at such a high elevation?
(2) I went to be fitted today and the licensed therepist indicated that I DO NOT need a guantlet or glove; however I have read that you should always wear one. The script from my onc. did NOT include a glove. The sleeve I am getting is a JOBST - the newer fabric with wider band at the wrist. Should I insist on a glove?
Thanks in advance.
Jaclyn
Diagnosis: 9/1/2009, IDC, 2cm, Stage II, Grade 3, 2/9 nodes, mets, ER+/PR+, HER2-
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kira Joined: May 2008 Posts: 755 |
Oct 28, 2009 08:00 pm, edited Oct 28, 2009 08:02 PM
by kira
kira wrote:
Jaclyn, it is usually recommended to have a gauntlet--you don't need the expense of a glove, if you are just wearing a garment for prevention. The newer Jobst sleeve has wool in it--a woman had a rash from it, and Jane got the fabric content. My fitter doesn't like it because she thinks it runs too short, and it only comes in one length. Jobst is used a lot because the sizes are so "generous"--they just come in three sizes with a huge over lap. I hope Binney comes along to answer this, but she usually recommends having a sleeve/gauntlet for higher altitudes. An airplane is compressed to about 8000 feet, and you're going pretty high up. People do get altitude sickness at those heights: high altitude headaches, and pulmonary edema--so edema at high altitudes is possible, but not inevitable. Hopefully your trip will be uneventful, but it's safer to have the gauntlet, because the sleeve can push fluid up into the hand (think of a rubber band around your wrist). I know the new Jobst says it has less wrist compression, and more at the forearm, but it still has the potential to push fluid up. Some doctors just write for compression garments--and leave the extent of what you get up to you. Was the fitter a lymphedema therapist, or just a fitter? A good fitter is a wonderful thing, but a fitter is a person who is trained to measure and dispense, not a lymphedema therapist--although some therapists do fit and order garments. Kira Diagnosis: 5/10/2008, IDC, 1cm, Stage Ib, Grade 2, 0/3 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2- |
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Binney4 Joined: Aug 2004 Posts: 4,617 |
Oct 28, 2009 09:27 pm
Binney4 wrote:
Hi, Jaclyn, Let me just mention first that there is no licensing mechanism for lymphedema therapists (yet -- we're working on it!) They might be licensed PTs or OTs, but unfortunately the extent of their lymphedema training can remain a problem, since no state currently legislates standards for them. The important issue with garments is an excellent fit. Here's information about how to know if the fit is right for you: http://www.stepup-speakout.org/proper_fitting_of_lymphedema_garments.htm I'd think once you'd been in Keystone for awhile your lymph system would adjust so you could do without wearing the garments. But if you're doing any unusual activities while there, they'll be useful for those times as well. Don them again for the trip home. Packing can be a strenuous activity, with all the lifting and lugging, so consider wearing them while you pack as well. Your plans to stay well exercised and hydrated are great. Add some deep breathing as well -- it stimulates the largest lymph vessel in our bodies and that helps pump lymph fluid. And for goodness sake have a GREAT time! Be well, |
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judgejaclyn… Joined: Sep 2009 Posts: 23 |
Oct 30, 2009 05:09 am
judgejaclyn wrote:
Thank you for the replies. I will see my Onc today before my 3rd ddAC and speak to her about the glove. I plan to take the article/position paper with me! stay well.... J "I'm in it to win!" - Jaclyn
Diagnosis: 9/1/2009, IDC, 2cm, Stage II, Grade 3, 2/9 nodes, mets, ER+/PR+, HER2- |
My first lymphedema therapist had a grand total of four days of training in lymphedema therapy and, like yours, told me I didn't need a glove or gauntlet. My "vacation" to Alaska turned into a very worrisome time when my hand swelled on the flight there -- ugh! So you might want to ask your onc for another prescription for a gauntlet. If you decide not to wear it you'll at least have it with you. (Indications of impending problems include achiness or heaviness in your arm, tingling, or just feeling "funny.")