Lymphedema Alert Bracelets
 Opelousas, LA Opelousas General Health System is supplying Lymphedema alert bracelets as a free service to post mastectomy patients.
Lymphedema is a complication in which excess fluid collects in the arms or legs. This often happens after lymph nodes and vessels are removed in surgery, are injured by radiation, or when a tumor interferes with normal drainage of the fluid. This condition can be persistent and interfere with activities of daily living. In breast cancer patients who have undergone mastectomy with node removal this can occur in the arm of the affected side; that is the side where the breast and nodes have been removed.
According to the American Cancer Society, Lymphedema is a serious illness. Women who have been treated for breast cancer may be at risk for Lymphedema, or arm swelling. Most women who have had breast cancer will not develop this side effect, but many will. It is not possible to predict who will get Lymphedema, but recognizing it early and treating it promptly are the best ways to manage it.
“We really have to be proactive with teaching others and ourselves about the precautions that need to be taken after a mastectomy,” said Phyllis Pere’, OGHS Social Worker and breast cancer survivor.“We are giving the Lymphedema alert bracelet to the patient upon admission assessment to ensure that patient and staff will guard against this health risk,” Pere’ said.
The American Cancer Society provides positive information saying, there are ways for post mastectomy patients to help prevent and control Lymphedema. Patients should try to avoid infection. For example, have blood drawn, IVs and injections given in your unaffected arm. Keep your hands and cuticles soft. Also, wear protective gloves when doing household chores. Mastectomy patients should also avoid burns, constriction, muscle strain, and gaining weight in the affected arm.
“I am a breast cancer survivor and I feel I need to educate our mastectomy patients,” said, Pere’. “I got involved because I felt I wasn’t completely informed of this risk when I underwent my mastectomy 10 years ago. I knew I needed to inform mastectomy patients of certain things they needed to be aware of, such as the possibility of Lymphedema,” Pere’ said.
According to the American Cancer Society, signs of Lymphedema are: visible swelling, arm feels full or heavy, skin feels tight, you have less movement or flexibility in the hand or wrist, you have difficulty fitting the arm into a jacket or shirt sleeve, and your ring, watch or bracelet feels tight, but you have not gained weight.
Opelousas General Health System is committed to continue educating their patients in important health risks . For additional information and questions regarding post mastectomy care and Lymphedema feel free to contact Social Services at Opelousas General Health Care Systems for Phyllis Pere’ at 337-407-4404.
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539 E. Prudhomme St., Opelousas, Louisiana, 70570, (337)948-3011
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