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Breast Cancer Side Effects: Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a side effect from breast cancer treatments

Because breast cancer can impact the lymph system, some cancer survivors also face the challenges of lymphedema, the buildup of fluid in soft body tissues. It occurs when cancer and cancer treatments damage or block the lymph system.

Characteristics of Lymphedema

For women with breast cancer, lymphedema usually occurs in the arm. Lymphedema can develop within a few days or even a few years after breast cancer treatment. Symptoms include:

  • Skin puffiness or swelling
  • Smoother skin
  • Less pronounced knuckles, veins and tendons in the affected area

Some conditions increase your risk of lymphedema, like:

  • Slow healing of the skin after surgery or infection
  • A tumor that blocks the lymph duct or lymph nodes or vessels in the neck, chest, underarm, pelvis or abdomen
  • Scar tissue in the lymph ducts under the collarbones caused by surgery or radiation therapy
  • Removal or radiation of lymph nodes in the underarm

Your risk of lymphedema increases with the number of lymph nodes affected or removed by treatment. For example, if surgery only removes the sentinel lymph node (the first lymph node to receive lymphatic drainage from a tumor), you have less risk of lymphedema.

Managing Lymphedema

Lymphedema is challenging physically, psychologically and socially, but you can take some important steps to manage its effects.

Be proactive with these tips:

  • Talk to your healthcare team about your concerns and any symptoms you experience.
  • Consult a physical therapist who specializes in lymphedema prevention and management. This expert advice can help you confidently address your symptoms, give you exercises to do and make recommendations for appropriate compression garments.
  • Join the National Lymphedema Network for research updates and additional information that might tell you how to better manage or treat this condition.
  • Exercise. Studies show that slow, carefully controlled exercise, like swimming, stretching and lifting light weights, is safe and may even help you prevent lymphedema.

Related Topics

Bone Health

Bone Health

Some cancer treatments make your bones more fragile, but there are proactive ways to keep them strong. Find out how to protect your bone health.
Chemo Brain

Chemo Brain

Many women report what they call "chemo brain" as a side effect of chemotherapy. It can include forgetfulness and feeling foggy, and it feels frustrating. Read some tips for making your brain clearer and more alert.
Early Menopause

Early Menopause

Most young women don't expect to go into menopause at this stage in their lives. The side effects can be challenging, but there are ways to alleviate the symptoms.

Fatigue

Breast cancer treatment can cause fatigue in both the long and short-term. You don't need to accept it as par for the course, though. There are things you can do to feel more energized and healthy.
Pain

Pain

Certain breast cancer treatments and surgeries may result in pain. While pain is often part of the healing process, there are ways to manage your discomfort so you can lead an active and full life.

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