Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid in the surface tissues of the body. After breast cancer treatment, this build-up may occur because of damage to the lymphatic system as a result of surgery and/or radiotherapy to the lymph nodes (glands) in the axilla (armpit) and surrounding area. Occasionally it may be due to cancer cells in the lymph system.

People who have had a diagnosis of breast cancer can be affected by lymphoedema. This may develop soon after treatment or years later.

Lymphoedema is a long-term condition which means it can be controlled but will never completely go away. It is not yet known why some people develop this condition and others don’t. While it affects people in different ways, the most common symptom is swelling of the arm, including the hand and fingers on the side that has been operated on. Swelling can also affect the breast, chest, shoulder, or the area behind the armpit.

We have detailed information on lymphoedema in our section on treating breast cancer.