Lymphoedema fact sheet

Produced by Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA)

Based on BCNA’s Lymphoedema fact sheet

What is lymphoedema?

Lymph is a fluid that goes around the body and removes particles that may cause damage.

The lymph then goes through lymph nodes that remove the particles safely.

If the lymph nodes are damaged or removed, lymph fluid can build up in the tissues. This causes a swelling known as ‘lymphoedema’.

Women with breast cancer might have lymphoedema

If cancer cells spread beyond your breast they often spread to the lymph nodes in the armpits.

If cancer cells spread to these lymph nodes they must be removed.

Not everyone gets lymphoedema. You might get lymphoedema if

• you have had lymph nodes removed
• you have had radiotherapy to the armpit.

How you know if you have lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema can happen after surgery, even many years later.

Be aware of feelings in your arms, breast area, shoulders, chest or hands. You may feel

• Swollen or tight (you may notice that your rings, sleeves or wristbands feel tight)
• Aches or pains

If you feel any of these see your doctor as soon as possible.

There are things you can do to reduce your risk of lymphoedema

		If you might get bitten by insects, use an insect repellent. If you are bitten, use a product so that your skin does not itch.
		Take good care of your skin. Try to protect it from the sun protect it from cuts and scratches take care of injuries straight away use sorbolene.
		If you shave your armpit use an electric razor.
		Use gloves when you wash the dishes or work in the garden.
		Keep active to increase lymph flow.
		If a cut or scratch becomes red or warm see your doctor as soon as possible.

There are things that can increase your risk of lymphoedema 

		Try not to overuse the arm that had surgery let your arm get too hot go to spa baths or have a hot bath.
	​	Try not to wear tight clothes and bra straps tight watches and bracelets.

Take care when you travel

When you travel by plane, bus, car or train, parts of your body may become swollen. When you travel, try not to

	rush around
	sit still for a long time
	carry heavy bags.

 Tips when you travel

	Carry your bags on the side you have not had surgery. Use bags with wheels. Exercise your arm. Go for a walk every 2 hours.
	sit still for a long time

How you can manage lymphoedema 

There is no cure for lymphoedema. To make it better, you can try

• good skin care
• massage
• gentle exercise
• compression sleeves.

Compression sleeves need to be fitted well. Your doctor will tell you where to get one.

Where to find more information