Signs and symptoms of lymphoedema

Most people who are going to develop lymphoedema will see signs within 2 years of surgery.

The risk is life-long, though, so early intervention and monitoring are important.

It’s possible to detect lymphoedema in its early stages. Treatment can start even before any swelling is visible.

Lymphoedema signs to look out for

The symptoms of lymphoedema include:

• swelling of the arm, breast or hand of the affected side. Your clothes and jewellery may feel tight
• feelings of discomfort, heaviness or fullness in the arm or breast
• ache, pain or stiffness in the arm, shoulder, hand, chest or breast area
• a change in sensation (tingling, numbness)
• swelling that comes and goes and is made worse by heat, overuse, or inactivity
• dry skin
• infection in the arm on the affected side.

Read about Treatment for lymphoedema.

Infection (‘cellulitis’) can cause lymphoedema so contact your doctor or GP straight away if you notice any:

• heat
• swelling
• redness
• pain
• flu-like symptoms.

Detecting and monitoring lymphoedema

L-Dex measurement

Before surgery for breast cancer, ask your treating team if they can take an L-Dex measurement. This is quick and painless and measures the level of fluid in the arms and hands.

The first L-Dex measurement records a ‘baseline’ number. Then, after surgery, your lymphoedema therapist measures the same places regularly to look for changes.

A normal L-Dex range is between -10 and +10. An L-Dex increase of 6.5 or more means lymphoedema is developing. Your team needs to take action so you can see a lymphoedema specialist to start early intervention.

Lymphoedema centres

Some hospitals have lymphoedema centres that will check for early signs of lymphoedema for 1 or 2 years after surgery.

These centres have trained staff who can assess you and provide support and advice.

If your hospital does not offer this service, you can ask your GP or specialist to refer you to a therapist with lymphoedema training.

Find a lymphoedema specialist

Your GP can refer you to a lymphoedema therapist who will:

• assess your symptoms
• develop a plan to manage your lymphoedema or your risk of developing lymphoedema.  

The specialist may be a physiotherapist or occupational therapist with training in lymphoedema management.

You can also find lymphoedema therapists near you from the Australasian Lymphology Association.