Let's break it down...
What is the Lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a network of lymph nodes and vessels. Its primary function is to transport and filter lymph fluid throughout the body. This fluid contains mostly water and protein. The lymph nodes act as tiny filters, straining out foreign organisms and cells. The lymphatic system also helps protect you against various infections caused by bacteria and viruses. Lymph is formed from the fluid that seeps through the thin walls of other vessels into the body's tissues. The lymph capillaries and vessels pick up the fluid and pump it away from the cells. Lymph vessels do not have an active pump like the heart. Instead, lymph vessels have one-way valves, and muscle motion pumps the lymph.
What causes Lymphedema?
Lymphedema may occur when lymph nodes are damaged or removed due to surgery, radiation, or injury. You can also be born with lymphedema. The result is an accumulation of fluid in the tissues. Lymphedema can happen in two ways: •Primary lymphedema is a rare inherited condition in which lymph nodes and vessels are absent or abnormal. It typically affects just the legs and is more common in women than men. This condition can occur at birth, during puberty, or after age 35. • Secondary lymphedema can be caused by a blockage or cut in the lymphatic system. • Blockages may be caused by infection, cancer, scar tissue from radiation therapy, or the surgical removal of lymph nodes. Having lymph nodes removed or damaged with radiation due to cancer is the most common cause of lymphedema in the United States. Radiation damages the small lymphatic vessels and can lead to lymphedema, where the lymph nodes have been removed. • The most common types of cancer associated with lymphedema are breast (arm lymphedema), gynecological cancers including cervical, uterine, ovarian, vulvar (leg lymphedema), prostate, and other urological cancers (leg lymphedema), melanoma (arm or leg lymphedema) and other skin cancers. • Trauma or surgery: Both trauma and surgery can injure lymph vessels and lead to lymphedema. • Obesity: Extreme obesity can cause lymphedema.
What do you do for Lymphedema?
There are three main treatments for lymphedema: first is compression therapy, then self-manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), and skin care. Manual lymph drainage (MLD), assist in mobilizing fluid. Compression bandaging of the affected limb(s) with specialized minimally elastic cotton bandages is applied following MLD to prevent re-accumulation of lymph fluid. The patient wears the bandaging continuously in the time between treatments. MLD and compression bandaging continues until sufficient decongestion is obtained. Patients perform specific exercises and apply a low pH, lanolin-based skin lotion daily to keep skin healthy and prevent infections. At Edema Therapy Solutions, we realize that not all patients can bandage or have previously had difficulties with it. Other techniques and therapies available to help. When the edema is controlled, the maintenance phase of therapy begins. The patient is fitted for a compression garment, worn daily. This process is necessary to ensure continued decongestion and reduce the risk of developing severe cellulitis infections. Depending on the patient’s condition, the extent of compression will vary. Please note that CDP is not a cure for lymphedema. Exercise, compression garments, and physical therapy can help control the symptoms and prevent lymphedema from worsening. Although they do not cure the disease, they help in managing it. Lymphedema is a lifelong condition requiring a continued maintenance commitment.
What are the symptoms of Lymphedema?
Swelling or puffiness, usually in the legs or arms, can be seen in the genitalia, trunk, and face. •Indentation or pitting of skin that stays longer than usual; for example, after removing socks or rings •The feeling of fullness, heaviness, tightness, or pressure •Tingling sensation or numbness •Pain or discomfort •Difficulty moving your joints due to swelling. •Hard, abnormally dry, textured, or scaly skin •Recurrent infections or skin rashes It is essential to talk to your doctor when you have any symptoms.