breast cancer - The Compression Closet

Navigating Post-Breast Cancer lymphedema risk

Posted on October 3, 2023 | by Theresa | Leave a Comment

OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women worldwide, with millions of new cases diagnosed yearly. While significant advancements in screening, early detection, and treatment have improved survival rates, breast cancer treatments can sometimes lead to persistent side effects. Lymphedema, a chronic condition characterized by fluid retention and swelling in the limbs, is one such complication that commonly affects breast cancer survivors. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I want to highlight the link between breast cancer and lymphedema, its risk factors, prevention strategies, and early recognition and management. Continue reading →

Breast Cancer – Lymphedema

Posted on October 19, 2021 | by Theresa | Leave a Comment

LYMPHEDEMA AFTER BREAST CANCER

Breast cancer is one of the most common types affecting women today. About one in eight U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer throughout her lifetime. During surgery to treat the tumor, lymph nodes are often removed, which can disrupt the flow of lymph and cause swelling. The lymph nodes may also be treated with radiation which can cause damage to the lymphatic system. This does not always occur after surgery or radiation, as sometimes it appears months or even years later. As a result, it’s common for breast cancer patients to develop lymphedema. Knowing your risk factor for this condition and ways to reduce your risk is essential. Continue reading →

ANDREA COMPRESSION SHIRT

Posted on February 9, 2021 | by Theresa | 2 Comments

ANDREA/ANDREW COMPRESSION SHIRT

The Compression Closet is adding a new award-winning compression shirt designed to address lymphedema and edema in the torso, chest, and upper arms. Breast surgery and radiation can damage lymph nodes and vessels that lymph moves through, which may lead to lymphedema. In addition, swelling can develop in the breast or torso as a side effect. The Andrea/Andrew shirt is ideal for managing swelling in the chest and torso. Use in combination with Juzo’s Soft Compression sleeve and Juzo’s seamless glove for complete compression coverage of the arm, chest wall, and torso. Continue reading →

LYMPHEDEMA AFTER BREAST CANCER

Posted on October 20, 2020 | by Theresa | 2 Comments

LYMPHEDEMA SUCKS!

“I fought breast cancer; I’m a fighter! I am cancer free, so what is this lymphedema after breast cancer business? Why was I never told that I could end up with a chronic disease as a complication of my cancer treatments? This lymphedema sucks!” While working in a durable medical supply store that catered to breast cancer patients seeking bras and prostheses, this or a similar sentiment was often heard.

Lymphedema does suck, yet there are ways of reducing your risk of lymphedema after breast cancer. It was heartbreaking and frustrating to hear these women’s sentiments. Going through cancer treatment and receiving a lymphedema diagnosis can be devastating. But were they told and didn’t remember? Had they never been told, and their doctors just hoped for the best? Were their doctors unaware, or did they not want to deal with it?

Dr. Marisa Weiss, chief medical officer of breastcancer.org, says, “I can say from experience that the time right after diagnosis, when you are considering options and planning treatment, is a blur. Feeling anxious and overwhelmed makes it hard to listen, understand, and decide. So even if lymphedema gets mentioned during this time, you may not remember it. Or it may not come up because the focus is on getting you well. So if lymphedema does develop later on, it can feel like yet another insult to the body, one that many women weren’t fully prepared for. The good news is that women can learn to manage it and lead everyday lives. ” Continue reading →