Understanding Lymphedema After Cancer: What You Need to Know

One of the lesser-known but important aspects of cancer care is managing a condition called lymphedema that can occur after care. It’s often misunderstood, sometimes overlooked, and learning to prevent and treat it is important for long-term wellness. Let’s break it down.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling in parts of the body after damage to the lymphatic system — most commonly in the arms, armpits, legs, groin, breasts, abdomen, face or neck. It often occurs after cancer treatments that involve the removal or damage of lymph nodes, which are part of your body’s fluid drainage system.

When lymph nodes are removed or damaged, your body struggles to move fluid efficiently. This buildup leads to swelling, discomfort and sometimes pain. This increases your risk of infection, skin sores and other skin changes. For example, after breast cancer surgery, a person might notice swelling in the arm or breast, but it might not happen until years after surgery. 

What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms include:

• Swelling
• Feeling of fullness or heaviness
• Skin that feels stiff, tight or hard
• Weakness
• Aching, itching, burning or pain
• Skin that looks red
• Trouble bending or moving your fingers, wrist, elbow, shoulder or ankle
• Shoes, clothing, bra or jewelry that feels tight
• Voice change
• Trouble swallowing or speaking

But here’s the good news: Lymphedema can be managed, and you have more than 600 lymph nodes working to help you!

How Is Lymphedema Treated?

While lymphedema doesn’t go away completely, it can be controlled with the right tools and habits. Treatment typically includes:

• Compression garments like sleeves, bras, gloves or bandages
• Manual lymphatic drainage massage to move fluid away from swollen areas
• Exercise to help pump fluid through the body
• Skin and nail care, including daily moisturizing to prevent infection
• Pneumatic pump that uses compressed air to help move fluid
• Nighttime compression wear or swell spots to encourage fluid movement.

What Triggers Lymphedema?

Certain activities or conditions can make lymphedema worse or cause it to start. Common triggers include:

• Injuries or trauma to the affected area
• Tight clothing or accessories (e.g., heavy purses, tight cuffs, hair ties around wrist)
• Extreme temperatures, like hot weather or heating pads
• Inactivity, such as long car rides or bed rest
• Airplane travel without compression garments
• Repetitive motions, like cleaning, typing or lifting weights

Even everyday activities like gardening or grocery shopping can be high-impact depending on your body. That’s why prevention is key. Try these tips:

• Prevent infections in the swollen areas.
• Keep your skin clean. Use lotion that doesn't contain alcohol to keep it soft and prevent chapping, peeling and cracking.
• Be extra careful when shaving, and use a clean razor on clean skin. Electric razors are best.
• Check your skin regularly for cuts, sores, bug bites or other problems.
• Use an antibacterial ointment if you have a cut or sore.
• Don't pick at, bite or cut the skin around your fingernails. Use a cuticle stick to push your cuticles back.
• Trim your fingernails and toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails.
• Wear sunscreen to prevent burns.
• Wear shoes that fit well and don't cause blisters.
• Use an insect repellent so you don't get bug bites. 

How Can a Lymphedema Therapist Help?

A certified lymphedema therapist can be your guide to prevention and recovery. They’ll help you:

• Identify your personal triggers
• Return to favorite activities safely (yes, even marathons or backpacking trips!)
• Learn stretches and exercises to keep fluid moving
• Get fitted for compression garments
• Discover wellness tools like diaphragmatic breathing and mindfulness

Therapy isn’t just about managing symptoms — it’s about empowering you to live fully.

Want to Learn More?

If you’ve gone through cancer treatment, talk to your oncology team or primary care provider for more information to prevent and care for lymphedema.

Guest Blogger: Lindsay Barker, OTR/L, CLT, Occupational Therapist and Certified Lymphedema Therapist