Lymphedema is a condition that causes swelling in the body, usually in the arms or legs. This happens when the body’s fluid, called lymph, can’t drain properly. Lymphedema often occurs after surgery for breast cancer, especially if lymph nodes are removed or damaged. Learning how to treat and manage lymphedema is important to stay healthy and comfortable. While there are ways to prevent lymphedema, when you do have the condition, you will want to read on to learn about dealing with it.
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema happens when lymph fluid builds up in the body because it can’t drain the way it should. This can cause your arm, leg, or other parts of your body to swell up. Normally, lymph fluid flows through the lymphatic vessels and is filtered through the lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped glands. However, when these vessels or nodes are damaged or removed, the fluid can’t drain properly, leading to a buildup in certain parts of the body.
This condition is often connected to surgeries like breast augmentation or mastectomy (breast removal surgery). During these procedures, especially if lymph nodes in the underarm area are removed or damaged, the normal flow of lymph fluid can be disrupted.
Read more: Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema Guide
Lymphedema can be uncomfortable and make it harder to move around. It can also increase the risk of getting infections.
How Can You Tell if You Have Lymphedema?
It’s important to notice the signs of lymphedema early so you can start treating it right away. Some of the signs include:
- Feeling tight or heavy in your arm or leg
- Swelling in your arm, hand, or fingers
- A feeling of fullness or aching in the swollen area
- Trouble fitting into your clothes or jewelry on one side of your body
If you notice these signs, it’s important to see a doctor who can help you figure out if you have lymphedema and how to treat it.
Read more: When to see a doctor for my lymphedema?
How is Lymphedema Treated?
While there isn’t a cure for lymphedema, there are several ways to treat it and make the swelling better. Here are some common treatments:
- Wearing Compression Garments:
- Compression garments, like sleeves or stockings, help control swelling by gently squeezing the area, which helps the lymph fluid move.
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- Special Massage (Manual Lymphatic Drainage):
- This is a type of gentle massage that helps move the lymph fluid out of the swollen area. A trained therapist usually does this.
- Exercise:
- Doing light exercises can help improve the flow of lymph fluid and reduce swelling. Activities like walking, swimming, and stretching are good options.
- Pneumatic Compression Devices:
- These are machines you can use at home that apply pressure to the swollen area, helping to move the lymph fluid.
- Taking Care of Your Skin:
- Keeping your skin clean and moisturized is important to prevent infections, which can make lymphedema worse.
- Surgery:
- In some cases, surgery might be an option if other treatments don’t work. Surgery can help improve drainage or remove extra tissue.
Read more: Compression Sleeves for Lymphedema
How Can Custom Bras Help?
For women who have had breast surgery, wearing the right bra can help manage and prevent lymphedema. Custom bras are specially made to fit your body after surgery and offer many benefits:
- Support and Comfort:
- A custom bra is tailored to fit your body’s new shape, offering the necessary support to prevent the buildup of lymph fluid, which can cause swelling. These bras are designed to fit snugly but comfortably, distributing weight evenly across your chest and shoulders. This proper support helps reduce the strain on your lymphatic system, making it easier for lymph fluid to drain naturally, which is key in preventing lymphedema. Unlike standard bras, custom bras won’t dig into your skin or put unnecessary pressure on areas that are sensitive after surgery, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the day.
- Adjustability:
- After surgery, your body might continue to change—swelling can go up and down, and as you heal, your needs may evolve. Custom bras often come with adjustable straps, bands, and even cup sizes, allowing you to fine-tune the fit as your body changes. This flexibility is important because a well-fitted bra can prevent lymph fluid from pooling in any one area, which can help in both preventing and managing lymphedema. A bra that fits well today might not be perfect in a few weeks as your body heals, so having a bra that can be easily adjusted ensures you maintain the right level of support and comfort at all times.
- Soft and Gentle Materials:
- Post-surgery, your skin can be especially sensitive. Custom bras are made from high-quality, soft materials that are gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation or chafing. This is particularly important because irritation can lead to infections, which are a serious risk if you are managing lymphedema. The materials used in custom bras are often breathable and moisture-wicking, helping to keep your skin dry and comfortable, which further lowers the risk of skin problems.
- Look and Feel Good:
- Recovering from breast surgery can be a challenging time, and feeling good about yourself is an important part of the healing process. Custom bras come in a variety of styles, colors, and designs, so you don’t have to sacrifice your sense of style for comfort. Whether you prefer something simple and practical or something more feminine and stylish, there are options available that allow you to feel confident and beautiful. Wearing a bra that makes you feel good about how you look can have a positive impact on your mood and overall well-being, helping you feel more like yourself as you navigate your recovery.
FREE CUSTOM FITTING for CUSTOM BRAS
Managing lymphedema is important for staying healthy and comfortable, especially after breast surgery. By noticing the signs early and following the right treatments, you can control the swelling and avoid problems. Wearing a custom bra can also make a big difference in preventing and managing lymphedema. If you or someone you know is dealing with lymphedema, talk to a specialist about getting a custom bra that fits well and helps keep you comfortable.