According to the Mayo Clinic, Lymphedema happens when fluid packed with protein builds up, causing swelling in tissues because the body’s drainage system, the lymphatic system, isn’t working as it should. Think of it like a clogged drain in your sink – when things aren’t flowing properly, water builds up!
Usually, it shows up in the arms or legs, but it can surprise you and pop up in unexpected places like your chest, belly, neck, or even your genitals.
So, why does this happen? Well, blame it on the lymph nodes! They’re like the traffic cops of your lymphatic system, directing fluid flow. Sometimes, though, they get damaged or removed, often because of cancer treatments, and that can throw a wrench in the works. Anything else blocking the fluid’s path can make matters worse.
Below, you’ll find information on the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and ways we can assist if you or your loved ones live with this chronic disease.
Causes
The lymphatic system is like a highway system in your body, transporting protein-rich lymph fluid to help your immune system fight off infections and cancer. Lymph nodes, acting as traffic cops, filter this fluid and contain infection-fighting cells.
Normally this fluid moves through vessels thanks to muscle contractions and tiny pumps in the vessel walls. However, when these vessels can’t drain properly, usually in an arm or leg, lymphedema can occur.
The main causes of lymphedema include:
1. Cancer: If cancer cells block lymph vessels, lymphedema can happen. For example, a tumor near a lymph node or vessel might grow large enough to hinder lymph fluid flow.
2. Radiation Treatment: Radiation can scar and inflame lymph nodes or vessels, leading to lymphedema.
3. Surgery: In cancer surgery, lymph nodes are sometimes removed to check for the spread of the disease, which can occasionally result in lymphedema.
4. Parasites: In certain tropical regions, threadlike worms can infect lymph nodes, causing blockages and lymphedema.
5. Inherited Conditions: Less commonly, lymphedema can stem from inherited conditions where the lymphatic system doesn’t develop properly.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of lymphedema may include:
· Swelling in part or all of the arm or leg, including fingers or toes
· Sensation of heaviness or tightness in the affected area
· Limited range of motion
· Frequent infections
· Skin becoming hardened or thickened (fibrosis)
These symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Lymphedema resulting from cancer treatment might not show up until months or even years after the treatment has ended.
Risk Factors
Factors that might raise the risk of developing lymphedema include:
· Advancing age
· Excessive weight or obesity
· Having rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis
How can we help you?
In severe instances, lymphedema can impair movement in the affected limb, elevate the chances of skin infections and sepsis, and may cause skin alterations and breakdown.
Treatment options may involve more intensive therapy such as massage, using sequential pneumatic pumping, and in rare cases, surgery to remove swollen tissue or establish new drainage pathways.
However, there are other treatment options such as compression therapy and that is where we come in.
Compression therapy is used to alleviate swelling and prevent fluid build-up by applying pressure to the affected area. This encourages better drainage of excess fluid from the lymphatic vessels, reducing discomfort and lowering the risk of complications like infections and skin changes associated with lymphedema.
During the intensive phase of lymphedema management, compression bandages are often used to tackle significant swelling. These bandages apply pressure that decreases from the extremity towards the body, aiding the movement of lymphatic fluid and preventing fluid accumulation.
After the intensive phase, compression stockings and sleeves are worn regularly to maintain progress. Available in various styles and compression levels, these garments apply consistent pressure to sustain reduced swelling and support long-term management
Our Specially for You Wellness Boutique, we are dedicated to providing top-notch compression products and expert fitting services to support you or your loved ones on the path to improved lymphedema management. Achieving the right fit for compression garments is essential for effectiveness. Our team of certified fitters is highly knowledgeable and will tailor their assistance to your individual needs, ensuring personalized care and the best possible results.
Reach out to us today with any questions or inquiries. Call 780-483-7592!