Preventing Lymphedema After B... Health Article

After breast surgery, fluid may collect and cause swelling in the arm on the side of your surgery. This is called lymphedema. It occurs when lymph nodes under the arm are removed or the underarm area is treated with radiation therapy. This causes the normal flow of fluids in the arm to be reduced. To prevent lymphedema, try the tips on this handout.

Avoid Excess Use

• Carry purses and heavy packages with your other arm.

• Build strength with gentle moves such as making a fist.

• Don’t favor your operated arm. Use it to do light tasks such as dusting, writing, and weeding.

Keep Fluid Moving

To prevent swelling, keep the fluid moving in your arm. Try these tips:

• Raise your operated arm above your heart when you sit or lie down.

• Don’t wear tight sleeves, elastic cuffs, bracelets, wristwatches, or rings on that arm.

Protect Your Arm and Skin from Infection

• Wear gloves when you garden or handle garbage.

• Wash, treat, and cover even the smallest cut.

• Use an electric razor if you shave under your arms.

• Have injections given and blood pressure taken in your other arm.

• Don’t pick at or cut the skin around your fingernails.

• Avoid sunburns and burns from cooking or smoking.