Lymphedema

Lymphedema (pronounced LIMF-eh-DEE-ma) is a side effect that can begin during or after breast cancer treatment. It isn't life threatening, but can last over a long period of time. Lymphedema involves swelling of the soft tissues of the arm or hand. The swelling may be accompanied by numbness, discomfort, and sometimes infection.

There's no reliable way to find out your level of risk for lymphedema, but by taking proper precautions you CAN greatly reduce your chances of developing the condition.

This section is adapted from Living Beyond Breast Cancer by Marisa Weiss, M.D. and Ellen Weiss, with additional contributions by Sara Cohen, OTR/L.

The medical experts for Arm Lymphedema are:

• Sara Cohen, OTR/L, occupational therapist, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York City
• Marisa Weiss, M.D., breast radiation oncologist, Thomas Jefferson University Health System, Philadelphia, PA

These experts are members of the Breastcancer.org Professional Advisory Board, including more than 70 medical experts in breast cancer-related fields.