In simple terms, lymphedema is a swelling of an area of the body that is caused by excess fluid accumulating when lymphatic fluid is blocked. Any breast cancer surgery patient who has had the lymph nodes under an arm removed risks developing lymphedema and its complications. Radiation therapy to the underarm area can also cause this painful condition.
For women who develop it, the effects of a chronically swollen arm can be agonizing, both physically and emotionally. The condition can occur right after surgery (usually only temporarily), or a month or even years later. If you should develop symptoms, here are some treatment options that can make your lymphedema manageable:
- Elevation: when possible, keep the affected arm elevated above the heart.
- Exercise: begin activities slowly and be careful to prevent muscle strain. General cardiovascular exercise will help reduce symptoms associated with lymphedema, including swelling.
- Compression garments, pumps and bandaging: these techniques help control swelling. A specially fitted elastic sleeve or an intermittent compression pump may be prescribed.
- Massage therapy: Your doctor may suggest massage, such as Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid and reduce swelling. It can be performed by a physical therapist, or you can learn how to do this massage to yourself at home. Your friends and family members can also be taught to do this massage for you.
To reduce the risk of developing complications related to lymphedema, follow your surgeon’s instructions and remember to:
- Always inform nurses, physicians and technicians of your surgery so they can avoid taking blood pressure or giving vaccinations or injections in an affected arm or hand. To the extent possible, avoid having an IV placed in an affected arm. Some hospitals place a pink wristband on the affected arm of a breast cancer patient who has had her lymph nodes removed. Other hospitals post a large notice above a patient’s bed to alert hospital staff about lymphedema risks. If the hospital you are in does not post this kind of sign, have family or friends do it for you. These simple and cost-effective solutions may help reduce lymphedema complications during a hospital stay. Also, consider buying a lymphedema medical alert bracelet that will help to remind you and medical personnel which side to avoid for the above procedures.
- Avoid heavy lifting with your arm on the side that was treated. Carry heavy packages, handbags or suitcases with the other arm.
- Avoid tight-fitting gloves, cuffs, watchbands, rings, etc.
- Wear sunscreen of at least SPF 15. Avoid sunburn, especially to arms and chest.
- Protect fingers from punctures by sharp objects like pins and needles. Use a thimble when sewing.
- Use insect repellent as necessary to prevent insect bites.
- Push your cuticles back instead of cutting them when manicuring your nails.
- If cut, burned or bitten on a treated arm, thoroughly wash the area with soap and water. Keep it clean. Treat the cut, burn or bite with antibacterial medication, cover with a sterile dressing and change the dressing often to avoid infection.
- Avoid extremes in temperature; don’t use hot tubs, saunas or hot packs.
- Try using a deodorant instead of an antiperspirant if you have swelling in your arm. This may help keep the pores open. Because of possible numbness, consider using an electric razor to shave the underarm area; don’t use a depilatory.
Remember, if symptoms occur such as swelling, tightness, redness or pain in the arm or at the front of the chest wall, call your surgeon right away. Left untreated, lymphedema can result in other complications, including infection. If alerted, your surgeon can prescribe antibiotics that will safely and quickly respond to the infection.
For more information about lymphedema contact your local American Cancer Society, or call 1-800-ACS-2345. Other information sources include the National Lymphedema Network at 1-800-541-3259, or the National Cancer Institute at 1-800-4-CANCER.
Para solicitar información en español, llame al 1-800-ACS-2345. Un especialista en información sobre el cáncer le asistirá en español.
F/W 2002 Updated 9/18/2004 |
