MORE INFORMATION REGARDING
LYMPHEDEMA
Lymphedema
Supporting Your Journey
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a highly under-diagnosed condition that affects the lymphatic vessels, which are responsible for transporting protein-rich lymph fluid back into the circulatory system. Lymph fluid contains white blood cells (that help to fight infection), proteins, fatty acids, water. When lymph vessels are unable to transport this fluid properly, a build-up occurs, resulting in swelling and the thickening of the skin.
There are two types of lymphedema: primary lymphedema and secondary lymphedema.
Some people are born with a faulty lymphatic system; it may be inherited or can occur as the fetus develops. When lymphedema is caused by a defect of the lymphatic system, it is called primary lymphedema. It may be present at birth, develop when puberty begins or in adulthood.
Other people develop lymphedema due to an event that damages or blocks part of their lymphatic system. In this case, it is called secondary lymphedema. The most common cause of secondary lymphedema is the result of treatment for some cancers. Other causes of damage to the lymphatic system include trauma caused by an accident, injury or a burn." Alberta Lymphedema Association"
Who is at risk?
If you have had a mastectomy, lumpectomy, radiation treatment, lymph node removal, surgeries, infections, or trauma to the limbs, you may be at risk for developing lymphedema.
How can I tell if I have lymphedema?
A common indicator of lymphedema is indentations that do not immediately disappear after the skin has been depressed by the hand or fingers. This condition is usually found in the legs and arms; however, lymphedema can affect any region of the body. Many people with lymphedema are labeled over-weight, yet lymphedema is not about fat storage.
The Lymphatic System
The Lymphatic System is where much of the body's defense against disease and infection is located. It is made up of lymph fluid, lymph nodes and lymph vessels. Lymph fluid contains white blood cells that help to fight infection.
Lymph nodes work to block infection by filtering out toxins and germs. Lymph vessels are the transit system that lymph fluid travels along.
When the lymphatic system functions well, it helps to keep your body healthy.
The lymphatic system is the dominant route of drainage of excess tissue fluid. When the lymphatic system is faulty or has been damaged, fluid may collect in the tissues and this build up can cause swelling or other effects that could be the early signs of lymphedema.
What are the early signs of Lymphedema?
A full or heavy feeling in the affected area.
A numb, achy or stiff feeling in the affected area.
A feeling of tightness in the skin.
Less movement or flexibility in the affected area.
Trouble fitting into clothing or jewelry or shoes in the affected area.
An unusual swelling in the affected area.
Listen to your body and look out for the early signs of lymphedema. If you think you may have lymphedema, see a doctor or your healthcare team.
Early detection, diagnosis and treatment are vital to manage lymphedema and offer you the best health outcomes.
What can I do to reduce my risk of getting secondary lymphedema?
Take care of your skin to limit entry points for germs or infection.
Use a pH balanced skin moisturizer.
Use insect repellent when the bugs are out.
Clean and apply antibiotic cream to any cuts, scratches or grazes right away. Carry alcohol swab, topical antibiotic and band-aids.
Keep your nails and cuticles clean and cared for; do not cut your cuticles or chew or pick at your cuticles or nails.
Protect your hands and arms when you garden or take something hot from the oven.
Use high factor sunscreen and avoid sunburn.
If you need to have an injection, blood work or blood pressure check, inform the healthcare provider that you are at risk for lymphedema.
Watch your weight. A healthy weight can reduce your lymphedema risk.
Deep breathing and moderate exercise, ideally every day, help to get your heart rate up, blood pumping and lymph flowing.
Learn more about lymphedema, how to prevent it and what its early signs are.Lymphedema affects all ages and may occur years, even decades, after cancer treatment or trauma. For cancer survivors, the biggest risk of lymphedema follows treatment for breast, prostate or cervical cancer or melanoma.
You are at risk if you have had surgery to remove lymph nodes and/or radiation therapy. Ask your healthcare provider if you are at risk.
Treatment
With early detection, diagnosis and the right treatment you can manage lymphedema and prevent it from getting worse. Early treatment leads to the best health outcomes.
Getting lymphedema diagnosed and assessed can lead to effective therapy and the advice you need to manage your lymphedema.
The gold standard of lymphedema management includes Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) given by a certified lymphedema therapist such as Allison. She will assess your lymphedema and then decide on your treatment program.
Lymphedema Therapy includes:
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD): a special form of massage that re-directs lymph flow. MLD is a gentle manual treatment technique that improves the activity of the lymph vessels by mild mechanical stretches on the wall of the lymph collectors. MLD re-routes the lymph flow via tissue channels and lymph vessels around the blocked areas into more centrally located lymph vessels that eventually drain into the venous system.
Compression therapy: the use of compression garments (e.g. elastic bandaging, sleeves, gauntlets or tights) to control swelling. The elastic fibers in the skin are damaged in lymphedema. In order to prevent reaccumulation of fluid, it is necessary to apply sufficient compression to the affected extremity. Compression therapy also improves the function of the muscle pumps, helps to reduce fibrotic tissue and promotes venous and lymphatic return.
Education: to learn about how best to manage lymphedema. See my Favorite Links Page for more information and resources.
Exercises: to promote lymphatic flow. We will design a customized exercise program for you. These decongestive exercises aid in the effects of the joint and muscle pumps and should be performed while wearing the compression bandages or garment. Vigorous movements or exercises causing pain must be avoided. Exercises should be performed slowly and with both the affected and non-affected extremity.
Skin care: to prevent infection. The skin in lymphedema is very susceptible to infections and usually dry. A low-pH lotion (ideally around pH5), free of alcohol and fragrances should be used to maintain the moisture of the skin and to avoid infections. Patients need to consult their physician if there are any infections present in the affected extremity.
The goal of therapy is to reduce swelling, manage the lymphedema and reduce your risk of it getting worse and leading to other health problems. Your certified lymphedema therapist will guide you through the treatment program and show you how to control your lymphedema with self care.
Lymphedema is for life. Just as people with diabetes or a heart condition must learn to manage and live with it, ongoing self-care for lymphedema is vital. It takes time and knowledge, and is something you have to commit to for life. This will help you to better manage your lymphedema and reduce your risk of complications.