Can lymphoedema be prevented?

It can develop when lymph nodes or lymph vessels are removed or damaged during surgery or radiotherapy. Some people develop it soon after treatment, while others notice changes much later.

The lymphatic system returns tissue fluid to the bloodstream. When drainage routes are disrupted, protein-rich fluid can remain in an arm, leg or nearby body area, causing swelling, heaviness, tightness or reduced movement. After breast treatment, changes can affect the arm, hand, breast or chest wall.

Risk differs according to which nodes and tissues were treated, healing, infection and individual factors. Having surgery or radiotherapy does not mean that lymphoedema will definitely occur.

Keep the skin clean and moisturised, protect it from cuts and burns, and treat small breaks promptly. Build activity gradually, move the affected limb regularly and follow rehabilitation exercises supplied by your clinical team. Sudden heavy exertion can be uncomfortable, so increase load in stages.

Report persistent swelling, a tighter sleeve or shoe, jewellery leaving deeper marks, heaviness or reduced flexibility. Early assessment can identify other causes and allow a lymphoedema therapist to advise on exercise, compression garments, massage techniques or combined treatment when appropriate.

Get same-day medical advice if a swollen area becomes red, hot, increasingly painful or tender, especially with fever, chills or feeling unwell. These features can signal a skin infection that needs prompt treatment.

Sudden swelling, chest pain or breathlessness requires urgent assessment because causes other than lymphoedema, including a blood clot, must be considered. New swelling should not be managed with a borrowed compression garment before it has been assessed and correctly fitted.

Ask which body areas may be affected by your treatment, which early changes to monitor, when exercise can resume, and whether you need a rehabilitation or lymphoedema referral. If compression is suggested, ask who will measure and review the garment.