Breast Cancer		Patients at Risk for Lymphedema   Who is at risk for lymphedema? At risk for lymphedema is anyone who has had either a lumpectomy; simple mastectomy; modified radical mastectomy in combination with axillary node dissection and, often, radiation therapy; or radical mastectomy. Lymphedema can occur immediately post-operatively, within a few months, a few years, or 20 years or more after local surgery for breast cancer. However, with proper education and care, lymphedema can be avoided; or, if lymphedema develops, it can be kept well under control. Questions Related to Patients at Risk for Lymphedema What are the potential complications associated with a lumpectomy? What are the potential complications associated with a mastectomy? What is lymphedema? Is there anything I can do to prevent lymphedema? What is a compression sleeve? What are the side effects of radiation therapy? Is there anything I can do to help alleviate skin irritation during radiation therapy? What are telangiectasias? Is there anything I can do to feel less tired after radiation therapy? Will radiation therapy make me feel nauseous? If I have radiation therapy will I still be able to have children? What are the side effects of chemotherapy? Are there any side effects with Tamoxifen? Is there anything I can do to help with the nausea associated with chemotherapy? Is there anything I can do to help control the diarrhea? Is there anything I can do to help with the mouth sores from chemotherapy? What can I do to keep from getting an infection during my chemo treatments? Does Herceptin cause heart failure? I’m having chemotherapy. Is it okay to have the dental work done that I need? How do I deal with hair loss? Where can I buy a wig? Can I exercise while being treated for breast cancer and during the recovery period? Page 1 of 1    | 1 |

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