Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema

Breast cancer-related lymphedema is a type of swelling in the arm or hand and sometimes in the breast or chest wall that can be very uncomfortable.

It can occur when some or all of the axillary (underarm) lymph nodes are removed as part of treatment for breast cancer. It can also happen after the lymph nodes have received radiation. In both instances, the lymphatic fluid that’s normally filtered from the tissue collects and causes swelling. The more lymph nodes that have been affected the higher the risk of lymphedema that can last for life. The swelling can become severe. Skin sores, infection, pain, and other problems can develop.

SIGNS OF LYMPHEDEMA INCLUDE:

• visible swelling in the arm, hand, breast, or chest wall
• a sensation of heaviness, achiness, or tightness in the arm
• easy fatigue of the arm
• pain in the arm
• thickening of or changes in the skin
• bra, clothing, or jewelry don't fit as usual

TREATMENT FOR LYMPHEDEMA

Treatment depends on how severe the problem is. Treatment also focuses on ways to help prevent and manage the condition.

TREATMENT MAY INCLUDE:

EXERCISE. Exercise helps improve lymph drainage. Your healthcare team--certified lymphedema therapists will recommend specific exercises for you.

BANDAGES. Wearing an elastic bandage, a compression sleeve, or other compression garments may help to move fluid and prevent further swelling. They can also prevent fluid buildup. Your lymphedema therapist will instruct you on how to use these garments as needed.

DIET AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT. Eating a healthy diet and controlling your weight are important parts of treatment. Sometimes seeing a nutritionist can be helpful.

ELEVATION. Raising your arm above the level of your heart when possible lets gravity help drain the fluid.

INFECTION PREVENTION. It’s important to protect the skin in the affected area from drying, cracking, infection, and skin breakdown.

MASSAGE THERAPY. Lymphatic massage by a certified lymphedema therapist can help move fluid out of the swollen area.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE PUMP. A lymphatic drainage pump can be a big help, especially is other treatments aren't working. These pumps are often covered by insurance. 

You will most likely need to make these precautions part of your daily habits for life.

WORK WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM

Don't wait for lymphedema to develop. Talk with your healthcare team about what you can do to try to keep lymphedema from happening to you. Ask for a referral to a certified lymphedema therapist. This is a provider who specializes in lymphedema teaching and management.

Compare your hands and arms. Look at them in the mirror. Learn what's normal for you so you can notice changes right away. If lymphedema does develop, let your healthcare team know right away. You can take steps to try to keep it from getting worse.

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LYMPHEDEMA

Some lymphedema exercises can be found by

clicking on the button below.