Health
The term lymphedema refers to swelling due to the abnormal accumulation of protein rich lymphatic fluid. The lymphatic system is an important part of the body’s immune system. Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is deficient or damaged, altering the transport of the lymph fluid. Lymphedema usually affects the arms or legs, but it can also affect the head and neck, genital and trunk regions.
If it is not treated, lymphedema can cause enlargement of the tissue channels that transport the lymph fluid, limit the oxygen in the transport system, interfere with wound healing, and provide a culture medium for bacteria that can result in lymphangitis (infection). Lymphedema should not be confused with the swelling resulting from venous insufficiency, which is a pooling of blood in the veins of the legs.
There are two types of lymphedema, Primary and Secondary, which both occur when normal drainage is impaired or disrupted.
Primary lymphedema – is due to a defect in the lymphatic system, either from hereditary or sporadic causes. The majority of primary lympedemas appear before the age of 35. A primary lymphedema may develop at any point in life and occurs most often in the lower extremity.
Secondary lymphedema – the most common form, can develop as a result of surgery, radiation, infection or trauma. Lymphedema can occur immediately post-operatively, or develop within months or even years. The swelling can range from mild to sever,
Early diagnosis and treatment is important in the management of lymphedema as it will help both the prognosis and the condition. If you have, or are at risk of getting lymphedema, it is important to practice good skin care techniques. Look after your skin by preventing anything from piercing the skin layer which could enable bacteria to enter the body (i.e. cuts, scratches, pinpricks as well as needle pokes, insect bites, and burns). If your skin is injured, clean and protect the skin from further injury. Consult your physician if you suspect an infection (i.e. if you experience redness, swelling, pain or increased warmth in that area).
Although there is no cure for lymphedema, there is treatment available to help prevent or limit the severity of the
condition. Physiotherapists with training in the management of lymphedema will prescribe an individualized treatment
program that will involve:
After treatment, the physiotherapist will also encourage normal exercise and activity with certain precautions. For example, the best type of exercise for people with lymphedema is swimming and other water exercises, where the body weight is supported. However, for other exercises, such as walking, running, biking or weight lifting, it is advisable to wear either bandages or the compression garment. The physician, the physiotherapist and the patient work as a team to achieve success in managing lymphedema.
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