Venting: Feeling anxious and discouraged
I am approximately 6 months post right first rib resection and anterior scalenectomy. A few days ago, I noticed what seemed to be a muscle strain in the lower part of my operative arm with certain movements. I have been taking exercise classes that involve functional and strength training so I attributed the strain feeling to that. The pain has been improving however now I am feeling like I am noticing some swelling in the lower arm. I reached out to my surgeon’s office today to explain my symptoms and asked if I could get another ultrasound to make sure there are no new clots. I talked to one of the nurses who had me send pictures of my arm and said he will discuss with the surgeon to see what he wants to do.
That was this morning and I have not heard back yet. If I don’t hear back in the morning I am going to reach out again. I am afraid I have a new clot especially since I am no longer taking blood thinners. I’d like to think that the surgery would prevent any new clots stemming from vTOS but I know it can still be a possibility given that I have some scar tissue in my vein. I know my surgeon’s office is busy but I am feeling a bit brushed off and like something bad is going to happen and I won’t know in time.
Any positive experiences or advice welcome. :(