Lymphedema is a condition characterized by chronic swelling of a body part, caused by an abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid. In the United States, the most common causes are from breast cancer therapy which may include surgical removal of lymph nodes and intertwined vessels (as with a mastectomy), and scarring due to radiation. When these nodes and vessels are removed or damaged it becomes more difficult for the fluid in the arm to circulate to other parts of the body. If the remaining lymph nodes and vessels can not perform their job, fluid builds up causing swelling in the arm.

It is not fully understood why some patients are more likely to have problems with swelling than others, although high numbers of lymph node resections , age, post-operative infection, and radiation treatments appear to increase the risk of lymphedema. Most women who have had breast cancer will not develop this side effect. There are steps one can be taken to lower one’s risk for lymphedema after breast cancer treatment. For example, blood pressure and blood draws should be taken on the unaffected arm. Recognizing lymhedema early and treating it as quickly as possible is the greatest way to manage it.

Lymphedema tends to develop slowly. It may occur soon after cancer treatment or even many years later. The swelling immediately after surgery in the affected arm and breast is normal and usually temporary. Some signs of lymphedema may include heavy feeling in the affected arm, skin feeling tight, decreased ease of movement in the affected limb, and shirt sleeve, watch and ring tightness.

Lymphedema should be treated by a trained health care professional who has received specialized training in skin care, manual lymph drainage (gentle massage), multi-layered compression bandaging, individualized exercises, and compression sleeve fitting. Seeking treatment early will decrease the risk of infection, shorten the length of treatment, and allow for lymphedema control.