If you’ve had cancer treatment, your body has been through a lot. Surgery, radiation and other treatments can save your life but they can also cause changes you might not expect. One of these changes is lymphedema.
Lymphedema is swelling that occurs when fluid collects in part of your body. It can happen in any body part after cancer treatment, especially for breast cancer, gynecological cancers, prostate cancer or melanoma.
While lymphedema can’t always be prevented, there are steps that may help lower your risk and catch symptoms early. Knowing what to watch for and how to protect the affected area can make a meaningful difference.
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is more than just swelling. Nicholetta Fortunato-Tamayo, a certified occupational and lymphedema therapist at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, said it’s “a broad term that includes ongoing swelling, skin changes, tightness, heaviness in body parts and appearance issues.”
For head and neck cancers, lymphedema can also affect breathing or swallowing.
Lymphedema happens when the lymphatic system is damaged and cannot move fluid the way it should. This system acts like a cleanup crew, helping remove waste, bacteria and extra fluid from your body.
Cancer treatments can block how lymph (this protective fluid) flows through your body, similar to plumbing in a house,” Fortunato-Tamayo said. “When the flow is blocked or damaged, fluid can build up in nearby tissues.”
Lymphedema can show up weeks, months or even years after cancer treatment.
Why cancer treatment raises your risk
You may be at higher risk for lymphedema if your treatment included:
- Lymph node removal during surgery
- Radiation therapy to lymph node areas
- Tumors that block lymph vessels
- Infections or injuries in the affected area
Patients with head and neck cancers are at an even greater risk after surgery. Fortunato-Tamayo said, "They have a 98% chance of getting lymphedema. Even if they just have radiation, that risk is still 78%."
Risk can go up if you’ve had several surgeries in the same area, like a mastectomy and then reconstructive surgeries. It can also increase if surgery and radiation are done in the same location.
While some research links high body weight to a higher risk, Fortunato-Tamayo said that “lymphedema is seen in all body types.”
Common signs and symptoms to watch for
Lymphedema often starts slowly. Early signs can be easy to miss but here are some signs you may notice:
- Swelling in your arm, leg, hand or foot
- Skin that feels tight, hard or less flexible
- Jewelry, shoes or clothing feel tighter than usual
- Aching, tingling or discomfort
- Trouble moving the affected area
Can lymphedema be prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to stop lymphedema from happening. But you can reduce your risk by taking care of your lymph system and your body after cancer treatment.
Think of prevention as a set of daily habits that support healing and reduce strain on your lymph system.
Steps you can take to prevent lymphedema
1. Protect your skin
Your skin is your first line of defense. Cuts, burns and infections can trigger swelling.
You can protect your skin by:
- Keeping skin clean and moisturized
- Treating cuts right away with soap, water and antibiotic ointment
- Wearing gloves when gardening or doing housework
- Using sunscreen to avoid burns
- Wearing insect repellent to prevent bug bites
- Avoiding needle sticks, blood draws or blood pressure cuffs on the at-risk limb, when possible
If you notice redness, warmth or signs of infection, contact your health care provider.
2. Avoid tight clothing and jewelry
Tight items can restrict lymph flow. Fortunato-Tamayo encourages patients to avoid:
- Tight sleeves or socks
- Tight bras with narrow straps
- Rings or watches that leave marks
- Compression from heavy bags or straps
Choose loose, comfortable clothing that allows good circulation.
3. Be careful with heat and extreme temperatures
“Warmer weather and storms (changes in barometric pressure) tend to increase symptoms,” Fortunato-Tamayo said. “Patients can often ‘feel’ a storm coming and describe the affected areas as tight or uncomfortable.”
You may want to limit:
- Hot tubs and saunas
- Very hot showers or baths
- Heating pads on the at-risk area
Cold weather can also affect circulation. Dress warmly and protect exposed skin.
4. Use compression when recommended
A compression garment, such as sleeves or stockings, can help move lymph fluid and reduce swelling. They are often worn during exercise, travel or long periods of sitting or standing.
Compression should be fitted by a trained professional. Wearing the wrong size or type can do more harm than good, so don’t start compression on your own without guidance.
5. Keep moving your body
Gentle movement helps lymph fluid flow. After cancer treatment, it’s normal to feel cautious about exercise. Still, regular movement is one of the best ways to support your lymphatic system.
Helpful activities include:
- Walking
- Light stretching
- Swimming
- Yoga or Tai Chi
- Strength training with guidance
Start slow and build over time. If you have had surgery or radiation therapy, ask your provider or physical therapist which exercises are safe for you.
6. Maintain a healthy weight
If weight changes are part of your cancer recovery, you’re not alone. Focus on small, steady steps rather than quick fixes.
You can support a healthy weight by:
- Eating a diet rich in protein and low in salt
- Choosing whole foods when possible
- Staying active most days of the week
- Asking for help from a dietitian if needed
7. Learn your personal risk
“Lymphedema should be discussed early in the treatment planning process to reduce symptoms and improve outcomes following procedures,” Fortunato-Tamayo said.
Ask your provider questions like:
- Were lymph nodes removed?
- Which areas are at risk?
- Should I see a lymphedema rehabilitation specialist?
- What symptoms should I report right away?
What to do if you think you have lymphedema
If you notice swelling or other symptoms, don’t wait. Early care can:
- Reduce swelling
- Prevent skin changes
- Improve comfort and movement
- Lower the risk of infection
Your provider may refer you to a certified lymphedema therapist for treatment that may include:
- Manual lymph drainage (specialized massage)
- Compression bandaging or garments
- Targeted exercises
- Skin care education
Many people find that symptoms improve with consistent care.
Takeaway
Lymphedema can feel like another hurdle after everything you’ve been through. If you develop it, it’s not something you caused. With support, many people manage lymphedema successfully and continue to live full, active lives.
Pay attention to changes in your body and contact your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist if you have concerns.
