What causes arm swelling five years after breast cancer surgery?
Apr 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Qi Zhirong
Introduction
Swelling in the arm five years after breast cancer surgery may be caused by trauma, lymphedema, infection, or other reasons. Treatment should be based on the specific underlying cause. If the patient has experienced external impact, swelling or bruising may occur in muscles, bones, ligaments, and surrounding tissues, leading to the aforementioned condition. In such cases, medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may be used as directed by a physician.
Swelling in the arm five years after breast cancer surgery may be caused by trauma, lymphedema, infection, or other reasons. Treatment should be based on the specific underlying cause.
1. Trauma
If the patient has suffered external impact, swelling or bruising may occur in muscles, bones, ligaments, and other tissues, leading to the aforementioned condition. Medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or diclofenac diethylamine gel may be used according to medical advice.
2. Lymphedema
During breast cancer surgery, axillary lymph node dissection may damage the lymphatic vessels of the upper limb, resulting in lymphedema and subsequently causing the described swelling. Medications such as cefixime dispersible tablets, penicillin V potassium tablets, or diosmin tablets may be prescribed under medical guidance.
3. Infection
If the skin of the upper limb was damaged during surgery, allowing bacterial invasion and subsequent infection of the lymphatic network, the above symptoms may occur. Topical treatments such as erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, or fusidic acid cream may be used under a doctor's supervision.
In addition to the common causes mentioned above, scar contracture could also be a possible reason. Patients are advised to maintain a balanced diet and regular作息 (sleep schedule). If any adverse symptoms occur, timely medical consultation at a hospital is recommended.
