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CancerQuest > Introduction to Patient Information > Side Effects of Cancer Treatments > Lymphedema: Introduction > Prevention of Lymphedema

Prevention of Lymphedema

Lymphedema can develop immediately following surgery or arise weeks, month, or even years later.⁽¹⁾Therefore, patients at high risk should discuss preventative measures or a preventative exam with their physician. Elements of a lymphedema exam include:^(2)(3)(4)

 

• Comparison of actual weight to ideal weight
• Measurements of the arms and legs
• Blood protein levels
• Assessment of ability to perform "daily activities"
• Medical illnesses including diabetes and heart disease should be considered when determining the risk of acquiring lymphedema.

If an infection occurs extra care is necessary to prevent the development of lymphedema.⁽⁴⁾⁽³⁾

Exercise after surgery (in consutation with a physician or therapist) is beneficial as it increases lymphatic drainage. For breast cancer patients, who often have lymph nodes removed from under their arms, doctors recommend exercises of hands and arms.⁽⁵⁾ Depending on the type of cancer and its involvement with local lymph nodes, physical exercises are prescribed to reduce the risk of lymphedema. A healthcare provider should be consulted to determine exercise levels that are appropriate. Some patients are afraid to exercise because they do not want to cause lymphedema. Recent work suggests that the opposite may be true; proper exercise can actually prevent lymphedema.^(5)(6)(7)

If you notice any changes on your body, or experience any symptoms call your doctor and seek medical assistance.

Visit the NCI website for more prevention guidelines.

References for this page:

1. National Lymphedema Network. A Brief Overview. Accessed July 24, 2007. [http://www.lymphnet.org/lymphedemaFAQs/overview.htm]
2. National Cancer Institute. Lymphedema. Accessed July 24, 2007 [http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/lymphedema/Patient/page2]
3. Lawenda BD, Mondry TE, Johnstone PA. Lymphedema: a primer on the identification and management of a chronic condition in oncologic treatment. CA Cancer J Clin. 2009 Jan-Feb;59(1):8-24. [PUBMED]
4. Bennett Britton TM, Purushotham AD. Understanding breast cancer-related lymphoedema. Surgeon. 2009 Apr;7(2):120-4. [PUBMED]
5. Schmitz KH. Balancing lymphedema risk: exercise versus deconditioning for breast cancer survivors. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2010 Jan;38(1):17-24. [PUBMED]
6. McNeely ML, Campbell K, Ospina M, Rowe BH, Dabbs K, Klassen TP, Mackey J, Courneya K. Exercise interventions for upper-limb dysfunction due to breast cancer treatment.Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Jun 16;6:CD005211. [PUBMED]
7. McCausland LL. Dragon boat racing: life after breast cancer treatment. Am J Nurs. 2010 Oct;110(10):48-54. [PUBMED]