Download Understanding Lymphedema

What is the lymph system?
The lymph system is a series of collecting tubes (called lymph vessels or
ducts) and filters (called lymph nodes), which work with the blood system to
remove waste from the body. This waste is made up of dead cells and proteins
that are too big to be taken away by smaller blood vessels.
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a collection of fluid in the tissues. It most often occurs in the
arms or legs. It is not the same as water retention which needs a very
different treatment.
What causes lymphedema?
It is caused by a blockage or slowdown in the lymph system.
How do I know if I have it?
You may have swelling in your arm, breast, leg, or genital area. The swelling
may be present at all times or it can come and go. The affected area may also
feel heavy or ache.
Why does cancer or cancer treatment cause
lymphedema?
During cancer surgery, lymph nodes are often taken out to see if the disease
has spread. Sometimes this causes swelling in a limb.
Radiation therapy is often used to treat lymph nodes, which may have cancer
inside them. While it kills cancer cells, radiation can also damage the healthy
SIDE EFFECTS
Understanding
Lymphedema
cells of the lymph node. If the lymph node is damaged, it will not be able to
filter lymph fluid very well, which can lead to a build-up or swelling.
Cancer in the lymph nodes or a blood clot can also cause a blockage that may
result in lymphedema.
Why do some people get lymphedema,
and others do not?
There is no easy answer to this question. If you had lymph nodes removed,
had treatment in your armpit or groin, or if cancer returns in the lymph
nodes, you have a higher risk for developing lymphedema. Not everyone with
these risk factors will develop swelling. There is no way of knowing who will
develop lymphedema.
Can lymphedema be prevented?
If possible, surgeons only remove the lymph nodes that drain the area of the
tumour. This is called sentinel node biopsy.
Radiation Oncologists always try to spare as much of the lymph system as
possible when treating the cancer.
What Can I Do?
If you notice swelling in your arms or legs, tell your doctor or
nurse. You will need to be checked for other conditions that can produce
similar symptoms.
You should:
• Most importantly, get your weight into a healthy range.
• Keep the affected limb clean and dry. Wash with a gentle soap, pat dry
and apply a moisturizing cream.
• Avoid activities that may cause bruises, cuts, burns, scratches, and
sprains to the affected arm or leg.
• Prevent sunburns and insect bites.
• Avoid cutting cuticles when manicuring the hand on the affected side.
Do not bite your nails!
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• Avoid using the affected arm for blood tests, IV’s, or blood pressure
readings.
• Use oven mitts that cover the forearm.
• Use gloves for gardening, dishwashing, and other activities that may
cause injury.
• Use an electric razor to shave under-arms or legs.
• Avoid pressure on the shoulder of the affected side. Shoulder purses,
backpacks, and tight, narrow bra straps can reduce lymph fluid flow.
• Choose bras that have wide straps or slip a shoulder pad under the
strap.
• Avoid activities that can make the swelling worse. Repeated heavy
lifting, rubbing, knitting, chopping, pushing and pulling may cause
problems in some people. If in doubt, measure the distance around the
limb (girth) before and after the activity.
• Avoid temperature extremes while bathing, showering or washing
dishes. If the limb feels sore and aches, do not apply heat or ice to
relieve the pain. Do not go into saunas or hot tubs!
• Raise the affected arm to shoulder height, whenever possible. If may be
helpful to rest it on the back of a chair or on pillows.
• Avoid wearing tight watch bands or rings on the affected arm.
• If swelling persists, ask for a referral to the Lymphedema Clinic.
If you have any concerns, ask your Primary Nurse or oncologist for a
referral to the Lymphedema Clinic at the London Regional Cancer
Program.
NS4765 (2008/06/02) Updated December 11, 2012
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