The lymphatic system is composed of a network of vessels, similar to blood vessels, that branch throughout the body. Bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes are located along this network of vessels. The lymph system carries a clear fluid called lymph, which contains white blood cells and other infection fighting substances necessary for a healthy immune system.
If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, one of the first steps in planning your appropriate treatment regimen is staging the disease. One method of finding out the stage, or extent of breast cancer is removing some lymph nodes and examining the tissue under a microscope to check for cancerous cells. Clusters of lymph nodes are located in the underarm area and in the chest wall. Removing lymph nodes involves severing lymphatic vessels, which can disrupt the flow of lymph. Breast cancer treatments like radiation therapy also damage the lymphatic system, and the tumor itself can block the flow of lymph. All of these can lead to a condition called lymphedema.
When a breast cancer patient has lymphedema, the arm on the affected side swells as lymph fluid accumulates faster than the vessels can drain it. The arm can become red and tender, and the area is increasingly susceptible to infection. Over time, the lymphatic vessels become stretched out from the burden of carrying excess fluid, and the vessels lose their elasticity and ability to function effectively. In severe cases of lymphedema, the cancer patient’s arm stiffens and the patient loses mobility.
Although doctors don’t consider lymphedema to be a life-threatening condition, the swelling and pain that accompany lymphedema reduce the quality of life for breast cancer patients. Doctors treat advanced lymphedema as a chronic condition that patients must manage for life, rather than considering a cure. You must take steps to prevent lymphedema from occurring, and if you see early signs of lymphedema, you must treat it promptly to prevent this condition from progressing to the advanced, chronic form.
- Keep your arm elevated whenever possible. This allows gravity to assist in draining the excess lymph fluid from the arm. Keep your arm propped up on pillows while sitting and sleeping.
- Protect your arm from injuries that can lead to infection. Wear gloves when cooking, cleaning, or gardening. Use an electric razor to shave your underarms, or stop shaving altogether. Hold off on professional manicures; manipulation of cuticles can cause small nicks that introduce infection.
- Avoid anything that binds the arm or shoulder, including bras with narrow straps or heavy handbags. Carry a clutch purse, and wear a bra with wide cotton bands. Ask the nurse to check your blood pressure on your unaffected arm.
- Ask the doctor about compression garments designed to squeeze the arm evenly to prevent lymph build up. These garments vary from simple stocking-like tubes to sophisticated pneumatic appliances with inflatable chambers.
- Monitor your arm closely and notify your doctor immediately of any sudden changes in the circumference of your arm. If you see any signs of infection, such as redness accompanied by pain or tenderness, you may require antibiotics.
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Source:
National Cancer Institute's PDQ Summary
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