Hello irenko,
Thank you for your post.
As body brushing was something you did before your diagnosis, it is understandable that you would want to continue doing so after treatment, which included an axillary node clearance.
You may find the following article helpful Dry Brushing: Benefits, How To, and More (verywellhealth.com).
We know that dry brushing stimulates circulation. It may stimulate lymph flow but there are no studies to support this. More research is needed to prove or disprove if this is harmful following axillary node surgery, or if it may impact on the risk of developing lymphoedema.
Lymphoedema is swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid in the surface tissues of the body. This can happen as a result of damage to the lymphatic system following surgery and/or radiotherapy to the breast or armpit (axilla). Sometimes it can be caused by cancer cells in the lymph system or when having chemotherapy. Other risk factors include being overweight and infection in the arm or hand.
It’s not clear why some people develop lymphoedema and others do not, but lymphoedema can develop soon after treatment or may occur many years later. The risk is greatest for those who have both surgery and radiotherapy to the axilla (armpit). People who have had a sentinel lymph node biopsy only, have a reduced risk of developing lymphoedema compared to people who have had a number of lymph nodes removed.
Symptoms of lymphoedema include swelling in the arm, hand, fingers, breast, or chest wall on the side of the body where you had your surgery or radiotherapy. The arm can feel tight and uncomfortable, and the skin can become dry.
You may also find it helpful to watch our YouTube videos on lymphoedema and breast cancer and managing lymphoedema and reducing your risk.
If you develop any symptoms that sound like lymphoedema tell your breast care nurse, your treatment team, or your GP as soon as possible. The more time passes, the more likely it is that lymph fluid will build up in the tissue and cause more problems.
It sounds like you have spoken to your breast care nurse about dry brushing and cold showers. You may find it helpful posting this question on our forum to hear about other service users experience with dry brushing.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
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Best wishes
Sonia
Breast Care Nurse
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