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Health
9 min read
November 30, 2025
Living Well with Lymphedema
By Dr. Vikram Das, Lymphedema Specialist
About 20-30% of breast cancer survivors develop lymphedema after lymph node removal. While there's no cure, early detection and proper management can prevent progression and maintain quality of life.
What is Lymphedema?
When lymph nodes are removed during cancer surgery, lymph fluid can build up in the arm, causing swelling. This can happen weeks, months, or even years after surgery.
Early Warning Signs:
- • Arm feeling heavy or tight
- • Jewelry or clothes feeling tighter on one side
- • Visible swelling (compare both arms)
- • Reduced flexibility in hand or wrist
- • Skin that doesn't spring back when pressed
Prevention Tips
✓ DO This:
- • Keep affected arm elevated when resting
- • Wear compression sleeve during flights
- • Exercise regularly (gentle, with sleeve)
- • Maintain healthy weight
- • Moisturize arm daily
✗ AVOID This:
- • Blood pressure on affected arm
- • Injections or blood draws on that arm
- • Heavy lifting with affected arm
- • Tight jewelry or sleeves
- • Extreme heat (hot tubs, saunas)
Compression Sleeves: Essential Guide
Compression sleeves apply gentle pressure to prevent fluid buildup. They're essential for:
- Air travel – pressure changes can trigger swelling
- Exercise – prevents fluid accumulation during activity
- Hot weather – heat can increase swelling
- Daily use – if you have existing lymphedema
Early Detection is Key
If you notice ANY early signs, contact your doctor immediately. Early treatment can prevent progression.
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