Lymphedema

The lymph nodes in your armpit filter lymph fluid from the breast and your arm. Both radiation therapy and surgery can change the normal drainage pattern. This can result in a swelling of the arm called lymphedema. The problem can develop right after surgery or months to years later. About 5% to 20% of women develop this problem.

Treatment of lymphedema will depend on how serious the problem is. Options include an elastic sleeve, an arm pump, arm massage, and bandaging of the arm. Exercise and diet also are important. Should this problem develop, talk to your doctor and see a physical therapist as soon as possible. Many hospitals and breast clinics now offer help for this problem.

Possible problems: Stiffness of the arm, numbness under your arm, and swelling of the arm. Physical therapy is often helpful to restore full motion of your arm.

Adapted from "A Woman's Guide To Breast Cancer Diagnosis And Treatment" published by the California Department of Health Services and "The Breast Buddy Volunteer Training Curriculum", published by WIN Against Breast Cancer.

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Last Updated: 02/12/2003

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