Lymphedema
Lymphedema is swelling caused by fluid that builds up when lymph nodes are removed or damaged. It often affects an arm or leg.
Why it happens
It can happen after surgery or radiation to the lymph nodes, such as in the armpit, groin, or pelvis. It is common after breast cancer treatment and can appear months or years later.
What helps
- Tell your care team as soon as you notice swelling, tightness, or heaviness.
- Ask for a referral to a certified lymphedema therapist.
- Wear a compression sleeve or stocking if one is prescribed for you.
- Keep your skin clean and moisturized, and protect it from cuts, bug bites, and burns.
- Stay active with exercise your therapist approves. Exercise is safe and can help.
- Avoid tight jewelry or clothing on the affected limb.
Call your care team right away if you have
- The limb becomes red, hot, painful, or swells suddenly.
- You have a fever with swelling, which can mean infection (cellulitis).
- The swelling keeps getting worse.
Questions to ask
- Am I at risk for lymphedema?
- Can I see a lymphedema therapist for early exercises and education?
- Do I need a compression garment, and how should I wear it?
Sources
Quick answers
- What is lymphedema during cancer treatment?
- Lymphedema is swelling caused by fluid that builds up when lymph nodes are removed or damaged. It often affects an arm or leg.
- Why does lymphedema happen?
- It can happen after surgery or radiation to the lymph nodes, such as in the armpit, groin, or pelvis. It is common after breast cancer treatment and can appear months or years later.
- What helps with lymphedema?
- Tell your care team as soon as you notice swelling, tightness, or heaviness; Ask for a referral to a certified lymphedema therapist; Wear a compression sleeve or stocking if one is prescribed for you; Keep your skin clean and moisturized, and protect it from cuts, bug bites, and burns; Stay active with exercise your therapist approves. Exercise is safe and can help; Avoid tight jewelry or clothing on the affected limb.
- When should I call my care team about lymphedema?
- The limb becomes red, hot, painful, or swells suddenly; You have a fever with swelling, which can mean infection (cellulitis); The swelling keeps getting worse.
Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.