Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a common complication of any surgery that involves the removal of lymph nodes, such as modified radical mastectomy.
The most common symptom of lymphoedema is swelling and heaviness in the limbs (usually the arms).
Lymph is a white fluid that runs through your body’s the lymphatic system, and is used to fight infection.
If one, or more, of your lymph nodes are removed, the normal flow of lymph can become disrupted, leading to a build-up of fluid in your limbs.
There is no cure for lymphoedema, but it is possible to control the symptoms using a combination of different techniques, such as massage and compression clothing.
See the ‘useful links’ section for more information about lymphoedema.
