Lymphedema refers to tissue swelling caused by an accumulation of protein-rich fluid that's usually drained through the body's lymphatic system. It most commonly affects the arms or legs, but can also occur in the chest wall, abdomen, neck and genitals.
Lymph nodes are an important part of your lymphatic system. Lymphedema can be caused by cancer treatments that remove or damage your lymph nodes. Any type of problem that blocks the drainage of lymph fluid can cause lymphedema.
Severe cases of lymphedema can affect the ability to move the affected limb, increase the risks of skin infections and sepsis, and can lead to skin changes and breakdown. Treatment may include compression bandages, massage, compression stockings, sequential pneumatic pumping, careful skin care and, rarely, surgery to remove swollen tissue or to create new drainage routes.
Signs and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Lymphedema caused by cancer treatment may not occur until months or years after treatment.
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels that carry protein-rich lymph fluid throughout the body. It's part of your immune system. Lymph nodes act as filters and contain cells that fight infection and cancer.
The lymph fluid is pushed through the lymph vessels by muscle contractions as you move through the tasks of your day and small pumps in the wall of the lymph vessels. Lymphedema occurs when the lymph vessels are not able to adequately drain lymph fluid, usually from an arm or leg.
There is an association between a high body mass index (BMI), or obesity, and an increased risk for lymphedema. The more adipose tissue or fat one has, the more the lymphatic system will struggle to pass fluid. Excessive fat also promotes more inflammation. To successfully manage weight, balance meals with low-fat, nutrient-dense foods. Include lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and dairy in daily meals and snacks. It is important not to follow fad diets that restrict any food group. Eating foods from each food group guarantees that the body receives all its vital nutrients for survival. Monitor daily caloric intake. Phone apps like MyFitnessPal and Lose It! make tracking food consumption easy. Each person has their own unique circumstances, so it would be best to consult a dietitian for guidance.
Exercises that promote joint motion, stretching and strength training will help with circulation and improve lymph vessel activity. Consult a medical specialist such as a physical therapist or certified lymphedema therapist to safely execute any exercise program.
While diuretic medications generally work well with fluid retention associated with venous insufficiency (such as conditions like congestive heart failure), they do not work well with excess lymph fluid-associated lymphedema. Alcohol and caffeine could also function like diuretics. They both could dilate the lymph tissue and cause more swelling, and as a result, exacerbate the lymphedema.
Consumed protein has no connection with the protein in the lymph fluid. Low-protein diets may actually be harmful, as proteins contain essential amino acids that the body requires. Insufficient protein intake could result in malnutrition and muscle wasting. Each meal should include at least three ounces of lean protein such as eggs, fish, chicken, turkey and lean beef.
Salt promotes fluid retention. There are no official guidelines for avoiding salt for lymphedema, however people who are sensitive to salt might exacerbate their symptoms if they eat high-sodium foods. Current recommendations for salt intake are less than 2,300 mg for healthy individuals and less than 1,500 mg for people who have cardiac disease, diabetes and kidney disease.
Lymphatic massage, sometimes called manual lymphatic drainage, is a specialized type of medical massage. It can help treat lymphedema, in which lymphatic fluid collects in certain areas of the body because it cannot drain away effectively.
Lymphatic massage could be the key to reducing the swelling , pain and heaviness caused by lymphatic obstruction
Compression treatment aims to control and reduce the swelling caused by a build up of lymph fluid.
It puts pressure on the area of swelling and encourages movement of lymph fluid around the lymph vessels The pressure needs to be even but firm in the swollen area. Compression may also help to control pain caused by the swelling.
The pressure helps the trapped lymph fluid to flow through the lymph vessels. The compression garment or bandages also act as an extra force for the muscles to work against. This helps the fluid to drain out of the area.
All garments and bandages are measured and fitted by a trained specialist.
Skin changes and infections are common complications with lymphedema. The daily wearing of compression bandages or garments can stress your skin: it might get dry and prone to small skin injuries, such as scratches. This, in turn, increases the risk for bacteria to enter your skin that can cause infections. Deep skin folds that may develop because of swelling also increase the risk for infections.
* Wash your skin daily with mild soaps or skin cleansers that are moisturizing, hypo-allergenic, and have a neutral to slightly acid pH balance (around pH 5).
* Dry your skin carefully, especially any skin folds.
* Apply emollients: they coat your skin with an oily layer that protects against water loss.
* Avoid scented products that often irritate the skin.
* Immediately disinfect and treat any cuts, scratches, or insect bites.
* Avoid unnecessary injuries to your affected limb, such as taking blood samples or injections.
* Pay attention to your nail care to prevent ingrown nails or dry skin around the nail bed.
* The affected skin is particularly sensitive to sun. If necessary, apply sun cream or cover up with clothes.