What is Lymphedema?
The lymphatic system is responsible for defending your body against infection. When the lymphatic system is damaged, it can cause an accumulation of lymph (water and proteins) in your body’s soft tissues. This swelling is termed lymphedema and it is differentiated from other forms of edema or swelling. Lymphedema can occur anywhere in the body but is most often found in the arms or legs and is generally unilateral.
The swelling that’s caused by lymphedema occurs slowly over time.
Lymphedema may be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or tightness, difficulty moving, hard skin, folds developing on the skin, pain, or discomfort. Left unmanaged, lymphedema can cause serious complications, including:
Increased risk of infection in the swollen area because the cells that prevent infection aren’t well circulated in that part of the body.
Stiffness or soreness in the area.
Loss of functional mobility and the ability to accomplish daily activities of living.
Its important to understand that Lymphedema will not go away on its own without treatment. While there is no cure for Lymphedema, it can be successfully managed with Complete Decongestive Therapy by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Lymphedema occurs most often in patients who are undergoing cancer treatment. Its most common in patients who are being treated for breast, prostate, or pelvic cancers as well as lymphomas or melanoma. Lymphedema can also occur in patients that undergo cosmetic surgery to the breast, pelvis, head and neck.
Lymphedema can affect patients who have been diagnosed with a variety of conditions, including those with damage to their vascular system and those who are experiencing congestive heart failure, a severe infection, or those who are obese.
The condition can occur as a side effect of surgery or radiation, which triggers local inflammation and blocks fragile lymphatic vessels from circulating infection-fighting white blood cells throughout the body.
Once lymph nodes are removed during surgery, they do not regenerate. A lymphatic system that is compromised is at risk for developing lymphedema, even years after surgery or radiation treatments.
It is important to note, however, that not everyone who has had lymph nodes removed as part of cancer treatment will develop lymphedema.
While there is no way to prevent lymphedema, there are ways to lower your risk and reduce its severity. It’s recommended that you maintain a healthy diet, exercise and start prompt treatment if lymphedema is suspected.
What Treatments Are Available?
Currently, the gold standard for the treatment of Lymphedema is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. This form of treatment is low risk with nearly no complications to the patient. With good patient compliance, the patient can experience significant reduction in swelling and symptoms.
There is no cure for lymphedema, however, it can often be treated successfully and managed to reduce or eliminate symptoms. The earlier the treatment program starts the better the prognosis for the individual.
The certified lymphedema therapists at the Lymphedema Therapy Center of New Jersey, offers one-on-one treatment and education that are tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs.
Treatment may include:
Exercises targeted to lymph drainage, decreasing swelling, and improving strength, range of motion, and function.
Manual lymph drainage massage.
Compression bandaging to aid in reduction of swelling.
Compression garments such as sleeves or stockings can help reduce fluid in the area.