Lymphedema, or chronic swelling, can occur after surgery and radiation treatment for breast cancer. It happens when the lymph vessels that channel fluid throughout the body are impaired and cannot dispose of the fluid effectively. This causes fluid build-up and swelling, usually in the arm and hand on the same side as the treated breast.
It’s not known which patients will develop the condition but women who have many lymph nodes removed and/or radiation therapy have a higher risk of long-term lymphedema. Lymphedema can happen shortly after treatment or even years later. It’s critical that you monitor for swelling since detecting lymphedema early is key. It’s uncomfortable and can be painful and there is no cure but there are a number of ways to treat it.
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