Can lymphedema be prevented after cancer treatment?

There is no way to fully prevent lymphedema, but there are things you can do to lower your risk or keep it from getting worse.

Your healthcare team may suggest steps you can do at home. These include protecting your skin to prevent infection (for example, wearing gloves when cooking and gardening and using lotion to prevent cracks), wearing compression garments as advised, learning manual lymph drainage techniques from a certified lymphedema therapist, and exercising, which acts as a natural pump for the lymph system. Other steps include elevating the affected area when possible, avoiding pressure on it (such as having blood pressure and blood draws done on the unaffected arm), staying at a healthy weight, staying hydrated, reducing salt, and avoiding extreme heat and sun.

Lymphedema is easier to control when treatment starts early, so contact your doctor as soon as you notice heaviness, swelling, or other signs. Talk with your healthcare team about your risk and which steps are right for you.