What is lymphedema? Lymphedema is swelling that is caused by damage to the lymphatic system resulting in an accumulation of fluid in the tissues under the skin. The word lymphedema is broken down into 2 words; Lymph, a colorless to milky colored fluid in your body and Edema, which means swelling. Most often the swelling is in the arm(s) and/or leg(s).
Types of Lymphedema (There are two types of lymphedema.)
Primary lymphedema occurs without any known precipitating cause, and is due to inadequate or non-functional lymphatic vessels. Secondary lymphedema is precipitated by an event causing blockage or interruption of the lymphatic vessels. In the United States the most common causes are surgery involving the lymph nodes, radiation therapy, trauma, and cancer. It is most often seen following surgery for cancer of the breast, pelvic area, and resections for lymphomas and melanomas.
Signs and Symptoms of Lymphedema
Extremities with lymphedema develop a chronic inflammatory condition stemming from the accumulation of fluid, resulting in fibrosis (hardening) of the tissues. As lymphedema progresses, mobility can be severely impaired and joint movement often becomes restricted and painful. This unhealthy state often leads to recurrent infections because the high protein lymph fluid is a good growth media for bacteria and fungi. Each subsequent infection can further damage the already impaired lymphatic system
Treatment for lymphedema
The aim of treatment is to increase function by preventing further progression of the swelling. Treatment should begin as soon as lymphedema has been diagnosed by your physician, with a certified lymphedema therapist. Treatment can be effective even for people who have had lymphedema for many years.
Components of treatment:
The best and most effective treatment for lymph edema is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). It involves the following:
1. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle manual technique to move the fluid out of the affected area.
2. Compression Therapy: Compression bandaging is an essential component of lymph edema management to decrease the excess fluid, and help to soften the tissues. After treatment, a compression garment can help maintain results.
3. Exercising according to recommended CDT protocols can help stimulate the lymphatic system and get the fluid moving.
4. Meticulous Skin and Nail Care for the affected limb is crucial to keep skin healthy and protect against infections.
5. Good Nutrition and plenty of water is important. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Controlling weight is essential because being overweight can make the condition worse.
The LIVESTRONG foundation started by seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong announced its endorsement of H.R. 4662, the Lymphedema Diagnosis and Treatment Cost Saving Act of 2010 introduced by Congressman Larry Kissell (NC-08). This bill will require Medicare to offer fair treatment coverage for Americans afflicted with primary and secondary lymphedema. The National Lymphedema Network has called lymphedema “the epidemic no one talks about.” For further information you can look online at www.lymphnet.org or search for “Lymphedema in the News” on Facebook.
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