Lymphoedema and cancer

Lymphoedema means a build up of lymph fluid that causes swelling in a part of the body. It can develop if there are problems with the lymphatic system.

Lymphoedema (swelling) can sometimes develop due to cancer or cancer treatment.

There are many things you can do to lower your risk of swelling (lymphoedema) after cancer treatment.

The most common symptom of lymphoedema is swelling. Some people also feel heaviness or aching. Symptoms can appear any time after cancer treatment.

Doctors and specialist nurses can diagnose, test and assess lymphoedema. 

Treatments to manage lymphoedema include skin care, exercise, weight management, compression therapy and manual lymphatic drainage (specialised massage).

There are ways to reduce your risk of infection when you have lymphoedema. See your doctor straight away if you think you have an infection. Early treatment helps to stop an infection.

Research helps us to find out more about conditions such as lymphoedema. Researchers are looking at what reduces the risk of developing lymphoedema and different ways of managing it.

Lymphoedema can affect you emotionally, physically and practically. There are ways that you can help yourself to cope. You can also get support from other people.

There are lots of organisations, support groups and helpful books to help you cope with lymphoedema caused by cancer or its treatment.