Well, hasn't this site changed? I am guilty of being one of the ones who drifted away from posting etc, after successful surgery and in fact it's been nearly 4 years since I updated my own story, which is now in the 'old posts - read only' section here My Annus Horribilis Part 1.
So what brings me back? Well, I was simply looking for a little information on an annoying problem, that I believe is linked to my surgery and found my old log-in wouldn't work. So, if I am going to regain access, then I should also bring my own experience up to date, while seeing if anyone else has experienced my problem!
First the updates:
October 2015 and the annual review with my consultant. Great news as I am no longer required to attend his clinic as my PSA was once again undetectable. In future an annual blood test with my own GP is all that is required. My general health is good although I could do with losing a bit of weight!! I am still not 100% happy with my ability to gain an erection and don't enjoy the redness in the face etc that comes from taking Viagra, but hey ho!
October 2016 Blood test results still still good but while at the doctors, I mention that I am noticing that I am seeing swelling in my lower legs and ankles, particularly my right one. She asked how long this has been happening, but to be honest, I hadn't really any idea. It could have been 'creeping up' for years as far as I am able to say. She agrees to investigate the cause and I asked if it could be anything to do with my radical open prostatectomy and the removal of 2 lymph glands. Her reply was that it couldn't be ruled out.
November 2016 More blood tests (nothing found) and an appointment to attend a 'full bladder' ultrasound scan to rule out any problems in my abdomen. Sat in waiting room feeling very uncomfortable and at 15 minutes after my appointment time I was told that the ultrasound operator was unwell and a new appointment would have to be made! Now where is the toilet......
January 2017 Back again with the old full bladder, only this time, the scan goes ahead. Informed by my doctor, 2 weeks later that it didn't show anything, so she was now sending me for an ECG, as heart problems can cause swelling in limbs. Lovely, I thought, just what I need.
February/March 2017 ECG showed my heart was still where it should be and working quite nicely, thank you. Phew! Next was a 24 hour BP monitor, as my blood pressure was higher than expected. White coat syndrome, I said, and after an uncomfortable 24 hours of inflating cuffs and beeping devices, she agreed. Then she added that just to tick another box, in the diagnosis process, she was going to refer me to a vascular consultant.
May 2017 Appointment with vascular consultant came through for August 4th. Now I am really noticing the swelling and find a couple of pairs of shoes are becoming uncomfortable.
July 2017 Bl**dy NHS. Appointment with vascular guy cancelled and rescheduled for October! Not happy and currently waiting for my GP to return from holiday so I can discuss with her. This is when I decide to see if anyone else has had similar issues, post surgery, so here I am again.
There we have it. So, if anyone has suffered lower leg swelling following a prostatectomy, I would love to know and especially keen to hear about solutions etc. My GP suggested compression stocking at which I think the look on my face said it all to her. Apart from when I am visiting clients, I usually spend as much time as possible, from April to October in shorts and sandals, so having to wear 'Nora Batty's' is not really on for me. And if anyone wants to ask anything about my journey to here following my original prostate cancer diagnosis, simply get in touch
Steve