| Lymphedema is swelling that can occur in a body part, usually the arm or leg following removal of lymph nodes/tumors from the axillary (armpit) region or groin region.
The risk of development of lymphedema may increase if one undergoes radiation therapy in addition to lymph node/tumor removal. Lymphedema may also occur from birth or trauma. There is no current cure for lymphedema, but there is treatment to help improve and manage the condition.
Self-test
- Do you have swelling in a arm or leg that does not go away?
- Have you had lymph nodes/tumors removed and/or radiation therapy resulting in swelling of the arm or leg?
- Have you experienced trauma to a body part (ex., severe ankle fracture) that has caused swelling that never goes away?
- Have you experienced a slow, gradual onset of swelling in both arms or both legs and do not have blood clots or heart problems?
Got a question about rehabilitation? Ask an expert! E-mail your question to rehabsvs@northoaks.org, and one of our staff members will reply within 24 hours.
 [Back to Cancer]
|
LYMPHEDEMA
