Lymphedema Information and Treatment

Image source: https://integrativeoncology-essentials.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/lymphedema-therapy-e1344734121383.jpg

Lymphedema is a build-up of lymphatic liquid that creates distension in the limbs. Edema appears when venous and/or lymphatic vessels are damaged. When the impairment is so grand that the lymph fluid surpasses the lymphatic carrying capacity, an unusual quantity of protein fluid accumulates in the tissues of the limbs. If not treated, this inactive, protein-rich fluid not only causes tissue channels to expand in size and quantity, but also lowers oxygen through the transport system, interferes with healing of wounds and provides an inviting environment for bacteria that can produce various infections.

Lymphedema can present itself from idiopathic or undiscovered causes. This is called Primary Lymphedema. Lymphedema can be present at birth, either idiopathically or associated with arterial-venous abnormalities, hemangioma, or lymphangioma.

Surgeries to the breast or abdominal region can result in Secondary Lymphedema. Removal of a tumor through surgery and the adjacent lymph nodes and vessels can obstruct lymph fluid from moving naturally through its system. Other operations that necessitate lymph node removal are those done for certain types of cancers including skin cancer (melanoma), gynecological cancers, bladder or colon cancer and prostate or testicular cancer.

Radiation therapy used in the medical care of a variety of cancers and some AIDS-related ailments, can corrupt otherwise healthy lymph nodes by causing the formation of scar tissue and thus, block the normal route of the lymphatic fluid.

Secondary to an infection, lymphedema can occur that interrupts normal lymphatic pathway function. A harsh traumatic injury may also trigger the onset of lymphedema.

Lymphedema is a chronic situation and usually begins with a swelling in the hands or feet. Evaluating and treating the condition early improves both the prognosis and the condition. If the condition is not treated, the limbs become more edematous and the skin hardens, losing its elasticity (fibrosis) and can lead to irreversible complications.

Lymphedema treatment can include compression. Compression must be applied to the limb to reduce the swelling. Lymphedema compression stockings can apply compression. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is performed by therapists who are specially trained, utilizing a gentle massaging technique together with a pumping motion.

More often, compression pumps are being used in the treatment of lymphedema. The compression system consists of a pump and an appliance which fits on top of the extremity. Air pressure is applied to the appliance which in turn, applies pressure to the extremity. The basic pump applies a uniform pressure over the extremity. The better devices consist of a pump and appliance with three or more segment which sequentially apply pressure along the extremity, distally to proximally.