How to treat arm swelling due to breast cancer

At present, the treatment of breast cancer in our country is mainly surgical. After surgery, patients also face many postoperative symptoms, such as decreased resistance and edema of the upper limbs and hands after surgery. Among them, edema is a more common symptom. How to treat postoperative arm swelling after breast cancer surgery? Different situations require different treatment measures.

Many patients will experience edema in the upper limbs and hands after completing breast cancer surgery. If it is lymphedema, the patient can relieve the edema through local massage. In addition to massage, you should also pay attention to protecting the shoulder on the surgical side. Do not put pressure on the shoulder on the surgical side during activities, and try to keep the arm on the surgical side relaxed.

For patients with venous edema, they should usually keep their arms above the heart to avoid increasing the resistance to blood return. They can use a few pillows to prop up their arms when sleeping (note that the entire arm should be propped up, not just the upper or lower arm), and the clothes they wear should not be too tight.

It is important to note that after edema occurs, do not let the edematous limbs come into contact with hot water or take a hot bath, as this will aggravate the severity of the edema. Usually, pay attention to a light diet, regular work and rest, avoid spicy or salty food, eat more fruits and vegetables, drink enough water, and exercise in moderation.