The removal and or radiation treatment of auxiliary lymph nodes as part of treatment for breast cancer can lead to lymphedema. Lymphedema is a sometimes chronic and painful swelling of the arm or hand on the side of surgery. Lymphedema can develop weeks, months or many years after treatment and can vary in its severity. To prevent lymphedema, precautions can be taken such as avoiding an infection or injury to the affected arm.

Answers to these questions will help you understand Lymphedema

• What are my chances of getting lymphedema?
• If I do get lymphedema at some time is it likely to recur?
• What signs or symptoms of lymphedema should I watch for and report to my doctor
• If I get a shot or get my blood pressure taken from the affected arm will I cause lymphedema
• What exercises should I do (or avoid) to prevent lymphedema?
• What else can I do to avoid lymphedema? (i.e. use sunscreen, insect repellent and garden gloves)
• If I get a cut, burn or insect bite on the affected arm, what can I do to protect myself?

About Hormone Therapy
Hormones like estrogen can promote the growth of breast cancer if the cells depend on hormones to grow. Hormone therapy works by preventing cancer cells from getting the hormones they need to grow. The most common hormone therapy for early stage breast cancer is the drug tamoxifen and a newer class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors is also available. Other therapies such as the suppression or removal of the ovaries are sometimes uses as well.

Answers to these questions will help you understand hormone treatment.

• What does hormone therapy do?
• Which hormone treatment are you recommending for me and why?
• What are the short and long term side effects of this hormone treatment?
• Is there a generic form of this hormone? Is it as effective as the name brand?
• How soon after surgery should the hormone therapy be started? How long will I be on the therapy?
• In what form and how often will the treatment be given?
• Will I be given the hormone therapy along with other forms of treatment?
• Will my insurance cover the hormone treatment? If not are there financial assistance programs that will help cover the costs
• Will additional tests or exams be required? If so which tests and how often will they be needed?
• What signs and symptoms specifically should I report to you?