We began by introducing breast cancer, risk factors and how we find it. We went on to talk about surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy. After all this medical intervention, we are still one in eight women in Canada, finding our way and living out the rest of our lives. What challenges may we still face? Hormonal Therapies may be recommended; these are longer term medication, called Tamoxifen or Herceptin (and others). These are medications that are taken over a period of 5 - 10 years depending on the type of breast cancer that you have, how soon it was diagnosed, and your menopausal status. They offer some protection from cancer returning. Lymphedema is a condition in which there is a reduction in the natural lymph flow somewhere in the body. After breast cancer surgery and/or radiation there may be an interruption of the lymph flow through its watershed. The lymph system's job is to support your immune system and to interact with your circulatory system; it should flow uninterrupted, like a river. During breast cancer surgery, the tumour and local lymph nodes may be injected with a tracer and some dye. The surgeon is then able follow the dye to see which lymph nodes may be communicating with your tumour and remove them. Once your lymph nodes have been impacted by surgery and/or radiation, you are at a lifetime risk of developing lymphedema. Your job is to pay attention to mild sensational changes of heaviness, density or tingling in the arm. Lymphedema can't be cured, but it can be managed and treated with manual lymph drainage, compression garments specially designed for you and excellent personal care. We used to use of a machine called a lymphopress. Although the lymphopress may reduce the volume of a limb, it also may cause tightening or hardening of the tissues over the long term. We've advanced in our knowledge and treatment, so prevention is the key! Lymphedema Risk Reduction Practices are your job on a daily basis. You will know when and where to advocate for yourself and to ask for help.
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