lymphatic accumulation

sir,
my mom had undergone a surgery for her right brest two years ago at the age of 62 when it was diagnosed as the intial stage of breast cancer .now she has a swelling in the right hand and doctors have said it is due to the lymphatic's .,it gets worse on work and less other wise .now i would like to know is there a way out of this problem
roy

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Roy, Lymphedema is swelling in the arm or leg caused by excess fluid that collects after lymph nodes and vessels are removed by surgery or treated by radiation.  Lymphedema can occur within a few days, months or years after surgery.

Lymphedema can not be cured.  However, with proper care and treatment the affected limb can be restored to a normal  size and shape.  In addition, lymphedema can be treated and controlled so that it does not progress further.  If left untreated, lymphedema can lead to increased swelling and a hardening of the tissue resulting in decreased function and mobility in the affected limb.  It can also lead to chronic infections and other illnesses.  

For more comprehensive information about lymphedema prevention and treatment we have information on our Cleveland Clinic Website. Which is clevelandclinic.org once there click on Health Information Center, then type in lymphedema.