Is Lymphedema Curable
Understanding Lymphedema & lymphedema treatment
BY: Peter Hodges
A pooling of the lymphatic fluids on account of the failure of the lymphatic system gives rise to a health condition known as lymphedema. The fluid buildup usually takes place in the tissues of the arms or the legs and causes a painful swelling. Radiation therapy or removal of lymph nodes in the course of a cancer treatment may injure the lymphatic system and result in lymphedema. Sometimes, even a persistent infection in the legs may be a cause for lymphedema.
The lymphatic system transports the nutrients and removes the harmful substances from the body. An obstruction in this function may lead to lymphedema. Lymphedema may be primary (hereditary) or secondary. In primary lymphedema, the lymphatic system is deformed due to genetic factors. The condition may be apparent at birth or may show up at puberty. In such a situation, the lymph vessels may be inadequate to transport the fluids. Secondary lymphedema is a condition that is acquired on account of an injury to the lymphatic system, usually the result of cancer treatment or surgery.
In secondary lymphedema, precautionary measures can be taken to delay the onset of the condition. Generally, in case of persons who have their lymph nodes removed or those who have had radiation therapy for cancer treatment, doctors monitor the situation so that early symptoms can be detected and treated. For someone who has had an attack of lymphedema, constant monitoring and precautions are necessary so that the problem does not recur. Burns, blood clots, deep vein thrombosis and parasitic infections may be some of the causative factors for lymphedema. Use of certain medicines might sometimes cause lymphedema.
There are many options available for the treatment of lymphedema. Compression sleeves, compression garments, special stockings and compressive bandages are generally used by patients to keep the swellings in check. Exercising regularly helps in stimulating the circulatory process. Decongestive therapy is a method of stimulating the lymph flow with the help of a massage. This is the most common and favored method of treating lymphedema. A skilled therapist can help the patient with decongestive therapy, and along with regular compression bandaging the lymphedema can be kept under control. Mechanical pumps are also being used for the draining of pooled fluids, especially where the patient has no access to a therapist.
People suffering from lymphedema have to maintain a skin care routine. Skin care is an essential part of lymphedema treatment. The swelling in the limbs usually causes cracked and dry skin. This can be a point of entry for bacterial infections which could aggravate the situation. Therefore it is necessary to keep the skin soft with the help of creams and oils. Avoiding injuries, cuts and bruises can help the patients prevent recurrence of the ailment. It is wise to provide the information on medical bracelets so that due precautions can be taken in case of any emergency.
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Smiley Face Stress Ball $5.75 IN FOUR DIFFERENT COLORS ORANGE , YELLOW, GREEN, AND PINK. THIS SQUEEZABLE BALL IS 2 1/2 INCHES ACROSS... |
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Compression Dressings for Lymphedema Treatment - Dressings - Model 564824 $30.34 By Guenter Klose, MLD/CDT CertifiedInstructor. This manual containspractical bandaging instructions forlymphedema patients and therapists.It describes the effects of lymphedemabandaging and lists theimportant principles of lymphedemabandaging. 36 pages with morethan 60 color illustrations.... |
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Lymphedema: New and Emerging Treatments $29.95 Lymphedema is the swelling that occurs when a blockage in the lymphatic system prevents the lymph fluid in the arm or leg from draining adequately. As the fluid accumulates, the swelling continues. It frequently follows surgery for cancer and is an ongoing challenge for the patient. This talk, by the Director of the Lymphedema Clinic will focus on the new and emerging treatments for this condition... |
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Lymphedema: A Breast Cancer Patient's Guide to Prevention and Healing $10.75 Women who undergo surgery for breast cancer may end up with lymphedema, a painful, visible swelling, usually of the arm. Coming to their aid, Lymphedema lays out the many options for preventing and treating the condition. The book provides information on reducing lymphedema through professional therapy as well as exercise and self-massage, plus helpful illustrations and additional resources. It al... |
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Lymphedema: Understanding and Managing Lymphedema After Cancer Treatment $11.95 To shed light on this often-misunderstood and overlooked condition, the experts at the American Cancer Society have created an up-to-date, comprehensive guide to every aspect of lymphedema, a buildup of fluid that results in swelling of the arm or leg and other potential complications. This practical handbook covers topics including, current recommendations about day-to-day precautions, diagnosis,... |
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Voices of Lymphedema: stories, advice, and inspiration from patients and therapists $15.94 Chronic swelling due to lymphatic fluid, or lymphedema, affects 3-5 million Americans including 20-40% of cancer survivors. Lymphedema is so little known-even among doctors-that it has been called the 'silent epidemic' but there is effective treatment that can break the cycle of recurring infections and even reverse lymphedema related disability! Patients, therapists, and doctors share: . Insp... |
Lymphedema sleeves offer patients another welcome option in managing their symptoms. Many people find that a 
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