Preventive measures for upper limb edema after breast cancer surgery

  1. Never ignore a slight increase in edema in the upper extremities or chest, and promptly report edema in the upper extremities.  2. Blood should not be drawn and injected in the affected limb with poor circulation, and acupuncture should not be performed.  3.Avoid measuring blood pressure in the affected limbs with poor circulation, and measure blood pressure in the lower limbs for bilateral upper limb lymphedema.  4.Keep the skin of the affected limb clean and dry, pay attention to folds and finger gaps, and rub emollient lotion after bathing.  5.Avoid doing strenuous and repetitive exercises that increase the resistance of the affected limbs, such as scrubbing or pushing and pulling.  6. Maintain an ideal body weight, eat low-salt, high-protein, easy-to-digest food, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.  7.Do not wear overly tight necklaces and bracelets and rings for the affected limbs.  8.Avoid excessive temperature changes when showering or washing dishes, avoid sauna or hot baths, use anti-tall 9.Avoid any injury to the affected limb, such as cuts and thorns.  10.Wear gloves when doing housework or planting flowers and plants.  11.Avoid injury when trimming nails.  12.Avoid excessive fatigue of the affected limb, rest when the limb feels pain and elevate the affected limb. Some exercises are recommended, such as walking, swimming, aerobics, aerobics or yoga, Tai Chi.  13.Patients with lymphedema wear elastic sleeves when traveling by air.  14.Wear a light weight prosthesis or a suitable bra without steel support.  15.Use electric razor to remove armpit hair.  16.Patients with lymphedema should wear elastic sleeves during the day.  17. Seek prompt medical attention for any signs of infection, such as rash, itching, redness, pain, increased skin temperature or fever.  Lymphedema can occur from 3 weeks-30 years after surgery. The above recommendations are intended to encourage patients to use self-care methods to protect the affected limb, avoid risk factors, prevent infection, and maintain skin integrity. Reduce damage to the lymphatic system and venous vessels, thus eliminating upper extremity lymphedema.