Lymph node swelling after breast cancer treatment

What are lymph nodes and how might they be affected by treatment for breast cancer?

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and lymph nodes (also called glands) that run throughout the body. The main job of the lymphatic system is to help remove fluid – called lymph – that has leaked out of the bloodstream and into different parts of the body. The lymphatic system can be thought of as the body’s drainage and filtering system.^1,2

Breast cancer treatment may affect lymph nodes around the breast. This could be because of surgery to remove lymph nodes or as a side effect of radiotherapy to the lymph nodes. As a result, parts of the body may swell because fluid isn’t being drained as it should. This is called ‘lymphoedema’.²

Around 1 in every 5 women that have treatment for breast cancer experience lymphoedema in their arm.² It may also be seen in the hands and fingers or in the chest, breast, shoulder, or part of the back behind the armpit.¹ Other potential areas for lymphoedema include lower areas of the body, such as near the bottom of the tummy or in the feet.³

How do you know if you have lymphoedema?

It is important that you are aware of the signs and symptoms of lymphoedema so that it can be diagnosed and treated quickly should it arise.⁴

So, how do you know if you have it? 

Swelling is the most common symptom of lymphoedema. Although some swelling is normal after surgery, lymphoedema is swelling that tends to develop later on, or after cancer treatment is finished.¹ It is often seen between 12-24 months after ending cancer treatment, though can be seen up to 10 years after.³

Apart from swelling, other signs and symptoms to look out for include:¹ 

• Discomfort, heaviness, a dull ache, tingling, or numbness in the arm, breast, or chest area
• A tight feeling in an arm or breast area
• Dry, flaky or itchy skin due to the swelling
• Hardness or firmness under the skin
• Pins and needles

How can you lower your risk of lymphoedema?

There are several things you can do to lower your risk of lymphoedema after breast cancer surgery. For example:^1,2,3  

• Keep a healthy body weight
• Exercise and move regularly
• Follow a good skin care routine
• Reduce the risk of infection
• Avoid extreme heat and sunburn
• Avoid straining the arm after surgery
• Keep up with the exercises recommended by your physiotherapist

It’s important to tell your healthcare team straightaway if you notice redness, swelling, pain, tenderness or any other symptoms of lymphoedema.  

How can lymphoedema be treated?

The goal of treatment is to try and reduce any swelling and stop more fluid build-up, though this can be a slow process. Treatment for lymphoedema may include:² 

• Wearing an elastic sleeve, elasticated vest or arm bandage to reduce swelling
• Specific exercises to help drain the fluid from your arm
• A specialised massage called manual lymphatic drainage
• Guidance on specific positions to hold your arm in

You may find that you feel sad or angry – having gone through your breast cancer treatment and now suffering from lymphoedema.² Your healthcare team is there to support you through this time.