Some people may have severe swelling (edema) with the affected arm being several inches larger than the other arm. The main symptom of lymphedema after breast cancer treatment is swelling of the arm on the side where lymph nodes have been removed. But there is no sure way to prevent lymphedema. Newer types of lymph node surgery have also helped decrease lymphedema risk. Women treated for breast cancer who have good skin care and who exercise after treatment are less likely to develop lymphedema. There's no way to know who will and won't get lymphedema, but there are things that can be done to help prevent it. Any swelling should be checked by a healthcare provider right away. Lymphedema can’t be cured, but it can be managed. The risk continues for the rest of the person's life. Lymphedema can happen any time after surgery or radiation to the lymph nodes. It does not get better without treatment. The most common type of lymphedema is painless and may slowly develop 18 to 24 months or more after surgery. Lymphedema can also occur about 4 to 6 weeks after surgery or radiation and then go away over time. Types of LymphedemaĪ mild type of lymphedema can occur within a few days after surgery and usually lasts a short time. Lymphedema may occur right after surgery or radiation, or months or even years later. Radiation treatments to the under arm lymph nodes can cause scarring and blockages that further increase the risk of lymphedema. When many lymph nodes under the arm have been removed, a woman is at higher risk of lymphedema for the rest of her life. They drain the lymphatic vessels from the upper arms, from most of the breast, and from the chest, neck, and underarm area. The lymph nodes under the arm are also called the axillary lymph nodes. Often during breast cancer treatment, some or all of the lymph nodes under the arm are treated with radiation. Affected areas are also more likely to become infected. Skin sores or other problems can develop. Lymphedema can affect one or both arm, the head and neck, the belly, the genitals, or the legs. This disrupts the flow of lymph, which can lead to swelling. How Lymphedema Happensĭuring surgery for cancer, nearby lymph nodes are often removed. The lymphatic system also helps the body fight infection. It helps protect and maintain the fluid balance of your body by filtering and draining lymph and waste products away from each body region. The lymphatic system is part of your immune system. Lymph is a clear, colorless fluid that contains a few blood cells. The lymphatic system is a network of tiny vessels and small, bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes that carry lymph throughout the body. Getting treatment right away can lower your risk of infections and complications. If left untreated, lymphedema can get worse. But steps can be taken to help keep it from starting, and to reduce or relieve symptoms. It’s a chronic (ongoing) condition that has no cure. Lymphedema can occur months or years after treatment. ![]() Lymphedema is a problem that may occur after cancer surgery when lymph nodes are removed.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |