Lymphoedema

When lymph fluid builds up in the tissues under the skin, it can cause swelling (oedema). This is known as lymphoedema. It can happen if lymph nodes have been removed during surgery or damaged by infection, injury or radiation therapy. Lymphoedema may appear during treatment or months or years later.

Lymphoedema can occur after treatment for many different cancers, but is more common in people treated for gynaecological (vulvar, vaginal, ovarian, uterine and cervical), breast and prostate cancers or melanoma. Whether or not you develop lymphoedema after treatment depends on the location of the cancer, its stage and the type of treatment you had. Not everyone who is at risk will develop it.

Learn more about

• Symptoms of lymphoedema
• How to find a lymphoedema professional
• How to prevent or manage lymphoedema

Symptoms of lymphoedema

Having lymphoedema can make movement and some types of activity difficult. Swelling usually happens in an arm or leg, but it can also affect other areas of the body.

The main signs of lymphoedema include:

• visible swelling
• an aching or tingling feeling
• not being able to fully move the affected limb
• clothing, shoes or jewellery feeling tighter than usual
• pitting of the skin (when gentle pressure leaves a small dent).

How to find a lymphoedema professional

To find a health professional who specialises in the management of lymphoedema, visit the Australasian Lymphology Association and click on “Find a Practitioner”. This may be an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or nurse with special training.

How to prevent or manage lymphoedema

• Treat lymphoedema early so you can deal with the problem quickly and avoid symptoms becoming worse.
• If you are at risk of developing lymphoedema, see a lymphoedema practitioner for regular check-ups rather than waiting for signs to appear. They may monitor the amount of fluid in your body using a painless electric charge (bioimpedance spectroscopy).
• Keep physically active to help the lymph fluid flow. Do regular exercise such as swimming, cycling or using light weights.
• Keep the skin healthy and unbroken to reduce the risk of infection. Avoid cuts, scratches, bites and injections in the affected area. If you shave, use an electric razor to minimise cutting the skin.
• Moisturise your skin daily  to prevent dry, irritated skin. If you have lymphoedema, ask your lymphoedema practitioner about suitable creams and lotions.
• Protect your skin from the sun.
• Maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight can be a risk factor for developing lymphoedema.
• Avoid wearing jewellery or clothing that puts pressure on the affected area or leaves marks on your skin.
• Take care cutting your toenails or see a podiatrist to look after your feet.
• Wear a professionally fitted compression garment, if advised by your lymphoedema practitioner.
• Seek medical help urgently if you think you have an infection in the affected area.

For more on this, see Lymphoedema.

Although I’d had lots of lymphoedema education, I actually missed the signs and didn’t realise I had it until I developed cellulitis.

Suzanne