When I was going through breast cancer treatment, I never imagined lymphedema would become a permanent part of my life. I did everything right; daily exercises after surgery, physiotherapy, anything to lower my risk. But lymphedema has a way of creeping up on you quietly. I had no idea how much it would change my everyday life.
The hardest part is that no one really talks about it… until it happens to you. Lymphedema is a well-known side effect of lymph node removal and radiation, yet the approach often feels reactive instead of preventive. When you're first diagnosed, you might get a single pamphlet, just one, tucked away in a thick stack of paperwork outlining possible treatment side effects. You sign consent forms for life-saving therapies, but rarely does anyone take the time to walk you through what could come afterward. If I had known more from the beginning, I could have taken steps earlier to help prevent it. Awareness truly makes a difference, but too often, that awareness comes too late.
For me, it started small, just a little swelling in my fingers after a day of gardening. I casually mentioned it to my oncologist, as if saying it out loud would make it less real. He referred me to a lymphedema specialist, and just like that, I had another lifelong condition to manage. My body had already been through so much, and now this too.
The specialist explained what was happening. When all the lymph nodes in my left armpit were removed during surgery, my body lost part of its ability to drain lymphatic fluid properly. Radiation compounded the issue, further damaging the delicate network responsible for keeping everything flowing. The repetitive motions of gardening, typing, cooking or other house work added extra strain on my lymphatic system, pushing it past its limits. The result are fluid build-up, persistent swelling, and a new lifelong condition to manage.
Then, a few months later, things got even scarier. My left breast swelled up. My mind immediately went to the worst-case scenario, was the cancer back? I rushed to the hospital for an ultrasound, holding my breath. Thankfully, it wasn’t cancer, just scar tissue, a seroma, and more lymphedema. I was relieved, but also frustrated. It felt like my body was betraying me, again and again.
Now, managing lymphedema is just part of my daily life. It’s an adjustment, and some days are harder than others. Simple things like typing, folding laundry, carrying groceries can sometime feel overwhelming. I have to be extra careful with scrapes and cuts to avoid infections. But I’ve found ways to cope:
💙 Compression Wear: I wear a compression glove and bra daily. It felt strange at first, but now it’s just another part of my routine - like putting on shoes before heading out.
💙 Dry Body Brushing: I’ve added dry body brushing to my routine to help stimulate circulation and lymphatic flow. It’s a small but effective step that’s become a non-negotiable part of my day.
💙 Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): A specialized massage that helps move fluid out. I see a therapist regularly and have also learned techniques to do at home.
💙 Diet & Exercise: Movement is key! Walking, Pilates, stretching, and light strength training help keep the lymph fluid flowing.
💙 Skin Care & Protection: My skin is more delicate now, so I keep it moisturized and protected. Even the smallest cut can cause problems, so I stay extra cautious.
💙 Temperature Sensitivity: Extreme heat or cold can trigger swelling, so I have to be mindful of my environment.
I’ve shared some of the products that have helped me on my Products That Helped page, but everyone’s journey is different. Always check with your medical team to find what works best for you.
Lymphedema is a constant reminder of everything my body has been through, but also of how strong I’ve become. It’s not easy, but it’s manageable. I’m learning to be patient with myself, to celebrate small wins, and to share my story in hopes that it helps someone else feel less alone.
If you’re navigating lymphedema or a similar challenge, I’d love to hear your story. What’s helped you? How are you managing?
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