Lymphedema is a problem that may occur after breast cancer surgery when lymph nodes are removed. It can occur months or even years after treatment. It’s a chronic condition that unfortunately has no cure. But steps can be taken to help keep it from starting, and to reduce or relieve symptoms.
During surgery for cancer, nearby lymph nodes are often removed. This disrupts the flow of lymph, which can lead to swelling. This is lymphedema.
Often, during breast cancer treatment some or all of the lymph nodes under the arm are treated with radiation. The lymph nodes under the arm are also called the axillary lymph nodes. They drain the lymphatic vessels from the upper arms, from most of the breast, and from the chest, neck, and underarm area.
When many lymph nodes under the arm have been removed, a woman is at higher risk of lymphedema for the rest of her life. Radiation treatments to the under arm lymph nodes can cause scarring and blockages that further increase the risk of lymphedema, as can infection, severe injuries, being overweight at the time of diagnoses or gaining/losing more that 10 pounds per month after your surgery.
What are the symptoms of lymphedema after breast cancer treatment?
The main symptom is swelling of the arm on the side where lymph nodes have been removed. The amount of swelling varies from person to person. Some may have severe swelling with the affected arm being several inches larger than the other arm. Others will have a milder form and notice that one arm is slightly larger than the other.
Other symptoms of lymphedema may include:
Feeling of fullness, heaviness, or tightness in the arm, chest, or armpit area
Bra, clothing, or jewellery doesn't fit as normal
Aching or new pain in the arm
Trouble bending or moving a joint, such as the fingers, wrist, elbow, or shoulder
Swelling in the hand
Thickening of or changes in the skin
Weakness in the arm
Treatment for lymphedema
You should always consult a doctor, as left untreated, lymphedema will only get worse, however there are some things that you can do to help prevent and manage the condition.
Exercise helps improve lymph drainage. Specific exercises will be advised by your doctor or therapist.
Wearing a compression sleeve or elastic bandage may help to move fluid, and prevent the buildup of fluid.
Eating a healthy diet and being a healthy weight
Raising the arm above the level of the heart when possible lets gravity help drain the fluid.
Protecting the skin in the affected area from drying, cracking, infection and skin breakdown.
Massage by someone trained in lymphedema treatment can help move fluid out of the swollen area.
Self massage, which can be used in between seeing a therapist, or as a cost effective alternative – although it is recommended to seek guidance before doing this.
There are also some practical things you can do to help yourself, especially protecting your arms from injury or infection. For example:
Don’t carry heavy items, particularly with the affected arm.
Be careful not to damage your skin when shaving underarms
Use sunscreen on your body
Clean the skin every day and apply lotion
Avoid tight fitting clothing or elastic cuffs on your arms
Avoid extreme temperatures, hot tubs, saunas, ice packs, hot water bottles are all things to stay clear of.
Protect your hands
Use insect repellent to avoid bites and stings
Want to learn more?
Ask me about my online workshops. As well as going through practical advice, I will teach you how to complete self massage to support your lymphatic system.
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