At Risk for Lymphedema

Who is at Risk?

Lymphedema occurs often in breast cancer patients after surgery following underarm lymph node removal and radiation treatments. Lymphedema may also occur after surgery for uterine cancer, prostate cancer, lymphoma, melanoma, vulvar cancer, ovarian cancer as well as head and neck cancer. Other types of lymphedema, in the lower extremities, may also be the result of chronic venous insufficiency or from a congenital condition. Whatever the cause, lymphedema may develop within days or many years after treatment.

Reduce Your Risk

• Have injections or blood drawn from the unaffected arm or leg.
• Have your blood pressure taken from the unaffected arm.
• Wear gloves when doing house or yard work.
• Keep your arm or leg clean and dry. Moisturize your skin after bathing.
• Protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and protective clothing.
• Avoid lifting or carrying heavy bags, purses or other objects with your at-risk arm.
• Avoid wearing tight jewelry or clothing.
• Avoid cutting your cuticles during manicures.
• Use an electric razor, not a blade, to shave your underarm.
• Use insect repellent when outdoors, but wash off when inside.
• Avoid any type of injury, including scratches and bruises, to the at-risk limb.
• When flying in an airplane, wear a compression garment and drink lots of fluids during the flight.
• Rest your arm or leg in an elevated position (above your heart or shoulder).

Source: Susan G. Komen For The Cure