About Breast Cancer and Lymphedema
Learn about the disease, illness and/or condition Breast Cancer and Lymphedema including: symptoms, causes, treatments, contraindications and conditions at ClusterMed.info.
Breast Cancer and Lymphedema
Breast Cancer and Lymphedema |
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Breast Cancer and Lymphedema InformationHow Can I Help Prevent Lymphedema?Lymphedema can be prevented or controlled if it develops by following the recommendations below. Maintain good nutrition
How Is Lymphedema Diagnosed?Lymphedema is diagnosed after a careful evaluation of your medical history, including past surgeries and treatments, an evaluation of current medications and symptoms, and a complete physical exam. Sometimes, additional tests may be needed. How Is Lymphedema Treated?Lymphedema treatments vary, depending on the stage and cause of the illness. The most important aspect of treatment is learning how to care for your health. Your doctor or nurse will teach you and your family how to follow your prescribed treatment. If the initial signs and symptoms of swelling are caused by infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. Other treatments may include bandaging, proper skin care and diet, compression garments, exercises, and manual lymphatic drainage, a gentle form of skin stretching/massage. What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Lymphedema?If you suspect any of the symptoms of lymphedema listed below, call your health care provider right away. Prompt treatment can help get the condition under control.
What Can I Do if I Already Have Lymphedema?To help decrease the risk of further swelling, continue following the recommendations for preventing lymphedema listed above. In addition:
What Happens After My Breast Cancer Surgery?Lymphedema develops after breast surgery because there is an alteration in the pathway that drains the fluids involved in the immune system. It can occur at any time after the surgery. If untreated, it can become worse. Following surgery, a physician will examine you and take arm measurements. Sometimes, there may be redness or pain in the arm, which may be a sign of inflammation. Depending on your symptoms, your physician will then consider the best treatment options for you. What Is Lymphedema?Lymphedema is an abnormal buildup of fluid that causes swelling, most often in the arms or legs. The condition develops when lymph vessels or lymph nodes are missing, impaired, damaged, or removed. There are two types of lymphedema: primary and secondary. Primary lymphedema is rare and is caused by the absence of, or abnormalities in, certain lymph vessels at birth. Secondary lymphedema occurs as a result of a blockage or interruption that alters the flow of lymph through the lymphatic system and can develop from an infection, cancer, surgery, scar tissue formation, trauma, deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in a vein), radiation, or other cancer treatment. What Is the Outlook for Lymphedema?Lymphedema cannot be cured. However, with proper care and treatment, the affected limb can be restored to a normal size and shape. In addition, lymphedema can be treated and controlled so that it does not progress further. If left untreated, lymphedema can lead to increased swelling and a hardening of the tissue, resulting in decreased function and mobility in the affected limb. It can also lead to chronic infections and other illnesses. It is important to receive treatment promptly if you recognize symptoms of lymphedema. WebMD Medical Reference Who Is at Risk for Developing Lymphedema?People who have had any of the following procedures may be at risk for developing lymphedema:
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