After breast cancer surgery, systematic training of the affected limbs in a step-by-step manner under the guidance of medical staff is the most effective in preventing and treating edema.
In addition to this, experts have also made 18 recommendations to prevent upper limb edema after breast cancer surgery
1. Never ignore the slight edema of the upper limbs or chest, and tell the doctor promptly if there is any aggravation.
2.Avoid blood sampling and injection of the affected limbsl
3.Avoid measuring blood pressure in the affected limbs, if bilateral upper limb lymphedema is present, blood pressure can be measured in the lower limbs.
4.Keep the skin of the affected limbs, especially the folds and finger gaps, clean and dry, and rub moisturizer after bathing.
5.Avoid strenuous repetitive movements that increase the resistance of the affected limb, such as scrubbing or pushing and pulling.
6.Do not lift heavy objects (5kg), carry a bag on the healthy side
7.Do not wear overly tight necklaces and elastic bracelets
8.When showering or washing dishes, avoid high temperature, sauna or hot bath, use sunscreen products
9.Avoid injury to the affected limb, such as cuts, burns, sports injuries, insect bites, scratches, etc. Avoid any damage when trimming nails;
10, maintain the ideal weight, into the low salt, high protein, easy to digest diet, avoid smoking, drinking alcohol
11.Wear gloves when doing housework or planting flowers
12.Avoid overexertion of the affected limb, rest when the limb feels pain, elevate the limb
13.Some exercises are recommended, such as walking, swimming, aerobic fitness, cycling, aerobics or yoga.
14.Patients with lymphedema wear elastic cuffs when flying, and add elastic bandages when flying long distances to increase fluid intake
15, wear light weight fake breast or suitable, no steel bra
16.Use electric razor to remove armpit hair
17.Patients with lymphedema should wear an elastic cuff during the day, and ask the physician to check once every 4-6 months. If the cuff is too loose, it may be caused by the circumference of the upper limb becoming smaller or the cuff being worn out
18.Report any symptoms of infection, such as rash, itching, redness, pain, increased skin temperature or fever.