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To relieve arm swelling after a mastectomy, it's important to engage in gentle exercises and stretches as recommended by a healthcare professional to promote lymphatic drainage. Elevating the arm above heart level can also help reduce swelling. Additionally, wearing a compression sleeve may provide support and encourage fluid movement. Always consult your doctor or physical therapist for personalized advice and recommendations.

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1w ago

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Related Questions

Why is the hand enlarged or swollen on the affected side after mastectomy?

Loss of lymph nodes from surgery on the affected side often causes poor drainage from the arm on that side. This is why there can be hand and arm swelling.


Why can there be fluid retention in the arm following a mastectomy?

Lymph nodes have been removed therefore hindering the lymph system from draining properly.


What condition could happen if you draw blood from a mastectomy patient?

if you draw blood from the arm from the surgical side, they could get swelling of the arm from poor circulation, called lymphedema. so they cannot have any blood draws, iv's, injections or blood pressue taken on that arm at all.


Why is it that after a radical mastectomy the arm near the affected area usually swells?

A mastectomy is the surgical removal of a breast. In a 'radical' mastectomy, the lymph nodes (or glands) in the nearby armpit are also removed as this is where cancer can sometimes spread to..... this causes a disruption of the flow of 'lymph' in the arm causing a back up and the arm swells. Lymph is the remainder of the fluid that has filtered out of the blood to bathe the cells of the arm and usually travels back up the lymphatic system, through the lymph nodes, to mix back into the blood stream near the base of the neck.


Why shouldn't blood be drawn from the arm on the side of a mastectomy?

Blood should not be drawn from the arm on the side of a mastectomy because the removal of lymph nodes during the procedure can lead to lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling due to fluid buildup. Drawing blood from this arm increases the risk of infection, complications, and exacerbation of lymphedema. Additionally, altered circulation and potential damage to blood vessels in the area may further complicate the procedure. It's generally recommended to use the opposite arm for blood draws to ensure patient safety.


Why do you avoid venipuncture on the same side as mastectomy?

Venipuncture is avoided on the same side as a mastectomy due to an increased risk of complications, such as lymphedema, infection, and impaired healing. The removal of lymph nodes during the procedure can lead to compromised lymphatic drainage, making the affected side more susceptible to swelling and other issues. Additionally, using the arm on the mastectomy side for venipuncture may cause discomfort and increase the risk of complications for the patient.


Why cant you draw blood from the same side as a mastectomy?

Drawing blood from the same side as a mastectomy can increase the risk of lymphedema, a condition caused by the removal of lymph nodes during surgery. This can affect the flow of lymphatic fluid and lead to swelling in the arm, making it difficult to draw blood from that side. It is recommended to avoid drawing blood from the affected side to prevent complications.


If a women had a mastectomy that included the removal of axillary lymph nodes on her left side What can she expect regarding her left arm and why?

After a mastectomy with axillary lymph node removal on the left side, a woman may experience lymphedema in her left arm, which is swelling due to fluid buildup. This can occur because the lymph nodes that helped drain fluid from the arm have been removed. She may also have limited range of motion and increased risk of infection in that arm. Physical therapy and precautions to prevent injury or infection can help manage these issues.


Why can't you use iv in arm of a mastectomy?

Because of vascular flow issues commonly seen with this procedure


Do tetanus cause swelling in the arm?

A tetanus vaccine injection can cause swelling of the arm. If it doesn't get better in a day, talk to the doctor.


Does gum lancing relieve the pain of teething?

You should consult your doctor or pharmacist for effective medicines to relieve swelling and pain.


How long does swelling last following mastectomy with reconstruction?

Swelling after a mastectomy with reconstruction can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on individual factors such as the extent of surgery, type of reconstruction, and the body’s healing response. Initial swelling is most pronounced in the first few weeks post-surgery but typically begins to subside within 4 to 6 weeks. However, it can take up to a year for swelling to completely resolve in some cases. It's important for patients to follow their surgeon's post-operative care instructions to manage swelling effectively.