Lymphoedema

This section covers cancer-related lymphoedema, a common side effect of cancer and cancer treatments. Learn what lymphoedema is, its causes, how to recognise signs early and how it can be managed.

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What is lymphoedema?

Learn about the lymphatic system, when lymphoedema develops, and the risk factors.

Early signs of lymphoedema

Finding and managing lymphoedema as early as possible can help reduce the impact of lymphoedema.

How to reduce your risk of developing lymphoedema

There are several things you can do to help reduce your risk of developing lymphoedema after cancer treatment.

Diagnosis of lymphoedema

Your lymphoedema practitioner will ask about your medical history, and check the level of swelling and any pitting, thickening or damage to the skin.

Treatment and management

The aim of treatment is to help the flow of lymph fluid through the affected area.

Coping with lymphoedema

Lymphoedema can affect your body and mind, so it’s important to look after your wellbeing.

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This information was last updated in September 2023. See who reviewed this content.

A/Prof Louise Koelmeyer, Director, Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research and Treatment (ALERT) Program, and Associate Professor, Macquarie University, NSW; Prof John Boyages AM, Founding Director and Honorary Professor at the ALERT Program, Macquarie University, NSW; Dr Nicola Fearn, Occupational Therapist and Accredited Lymphoedema Therapist, The Lymphoedema Clinic Wollongong, and Senior Research Officer, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, NSW; Jennifer Gilbert, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Lymphoedema, Icon Cancer Centre, Chermside, QLD; Megan Howard, Senior Physiotherapist and Lymphoedema Physiotherapist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC; Caitriona Nienaber, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council WA; Dr Amanda Pigott, Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapy, Princess Alexandra Hospital, QLD; Prof Neil Piller, Director, Lymphoedema Clinical Research Unit, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, SA, and Patron, Lymphoedema Association of Australia; Ashlynne Pointon, Consumer; Dr Cathie Poliness, Breast Surgeon, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC; Tara Redemski, Senior Physiotherapist – Cancer and Blood Disorders, Gold Coast University Hospital, QLD.

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