Breast Cancer and Lymphedema (cont.)
Who Is At Risk For Developing Lymphedema?
People who have had any of the following procedures may be at risk for developing lymphedema:
- Simple mastectomy in combination with axillary (arm pit) lymph node removal.
- Lumpectomy
in combination with axillary lymph node removal.
- Modified radical mastectomy in combination with axillary lymph node
removal.
- Combined cancer surgery and radiation therapy to a lymph node region (such as the neck, armpit, groin,
pelvis or abdomen).
- Radiation therapy to a lymph node region.
Lymphedema can occur within a few days, months,
or years after surgery. A small amount of swelling is normal for the first four to six weeks after surgery.
What Happens After My Breast Surgery?
Lymphedema develops after breast surgery because there is an alteration in the
pathway that drains the fluids involved in the immune system. It can occur at any time after the surgery. If untreated, it
can become worse.
Following surgery, a physician will examine you and take arm measurements. Sometimes, there may
be redness or pain in the arm, which may be a sign of inflammation. Depending on your symptoms, your physician will then
consider the best treatment options for you.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Lymphedema?
If
you suspect any of the symptoms listed below, call your healthcare provider right away. Prompt treatment can help get the
condition under control.
- Swelling in the arms, hands, fingers, shoulders, chest, or legs. The swelling may
occur for the first time after a traumatic event (such as bruises, cuts, sunburn, and sports injuries), after an infection
in the part of the body that was treated for cancer, or after an extended (more than three hours) airplane trip (due to the
sudden change in cabin pressure).
- A "full" or heavy sensation in the arms or legs.
- Skin tightness.
- Decreased
flexibility in the hand, wrist, or ankle.
- Difficulty fitting into clothing in one specific area.
- Tight-fitting
bracelet, watch, or ring that wasn't tight before.
Next: How is lymphedema diagnosed? »
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