HOME > LIFE WITH CANCER > TREATMENT AND SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT > LYMPHEDEMA
Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluids that produces an abnormal swelling in the body. This condition can appear in some people who have been through breast cancer treatment. In addition to discomfort, lymphedema can also lead to infection, as the fluid buildup can increase bacteria growth.

Patients who have undergone axillary (underarm) surgery and/or radiation are at a higher risk of developing lymphedema. Lymphedema can occur as late as 15 years or more after surgery. There are ways to try and prevent lymphedema. Exercise can help improve lymphatic drainage. Make sure you are observing changes in your body and consulting with your doctor or physical therapist about recommendations after surgery and/or radiation treatment to prevent lymphedema.

Practical steps to prevent and control
  1. Pay attention to signs or symptoms of infection like pain, heat, swelling, a rash blistering, redness or a fever. Call the doctor immediately if you have one or more of these signs or symptoms.​
  2. Clean the skin of the limb or area of the body near the surgical site and apply lotion daily.
  3. Avoid injury (blows, cuts, sunburns, burns, insect bites, cat scratches) and infections on the affected limb.
  4. Use gloves for gardening, in the kitchen and for any other work that could result in a minor injury
  5. Use an electric razor.
  6. Take good care of your nails. Don't cut your cuticles.
  7. Avoid extreme temperature changes when bathing and hot or cold extremes from ice packs or heating pads.
  8. Be careful while sun tanning. Always use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or greater.
  9. Don't use tight jewelry or elastic bands around the affected fingers or arms.
  10. Maintain your ideal weight with a balanced diet, rich in protein and low in salt.

Treatment for lymphedema depends on the cause. For those who have lymphedema due to an infection, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. A compression system can be used on body parts that are swollen, such as arms or legs, to help ease the build-up. Read more about other treatment options.

Those with lymphedema have experienced body image changes and limited physical activity due to pain. Support through individual counseling or support groups is available for those who are feeling depressed, embarrassed or are avoiding social situations. Speak to your doctor and/or talk to a social worker at Dana-Farber if you are experiencing these feelings.

​Read a Dana-Farber teaching sheet about lymphedema. 

Additional Articles:
How to Prevent and Manage Lymphedema 
​What is Lymphedema and How is it Treated?

External Resources

National Lymphedema Network
Information and guidance on the prevention and management of primary and secondary lymphedema.
Greater Boston Lymphedema Network
Support, information, and advocacy in the hope of improving the quality of life for those with lymphedema.

LympheDIVAs
Medically correct fashion for lymphedema.

Jobst
Online product information and product selection tool for compression therapy products. Products available for purchase by dealer (search by zip code for availability near you).