March - Lymphedema Awareness Month
Lymphedema refers to tissue swelling caused by an accumulation of protein-rich fluid that's usually drained through the body's lymphatic system which act as filters and contain cells that fight infection and cancer. It most commonly affects the arms or legs, but can also occur in the chest wall, abdomen, neck and genitals. Cancer survivors who experience lymphedema report poor physical functioning, impaired ability to engage in normal activities of daily living and increased psychological distress.
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. Lymphedema caused by cancer treatment may not occur until months or years after treatment.
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.
Risk factors that may increase the risk of developing lymphedema include: older age, excess weight or obesity, and rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis
Lymphedema signs and symptoms include:
- Swelling of part or all of the arm or leg, including fingers or toes
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Restricted range of motion
- Recurring infections
- Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)
Lymphedema management begins by: understanding the causes, knowing how to prevent it, recognizing symptoms early if they occur, understanding the need for early reporting of swelling, and being familiar with the signs of cellulitis (inflammation/infection)
Treatment may include exercise, yoga, weight loss, compression bandages, massage, compression stockings, sequential pneumatic pumping, careful skin care and, rarely, surgery to remove swollen tissue or to create new drainage routes.
Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice persistent swelling in your arm or leg. If you've already been diagnosed with lymphedema, see your doctor if there is a sudden dramatic increase in the size of the limb involved.
For more in-depth information, please visit the following web sites:
https://openlibrary.org/books/OL27380858M/Breast_Cancer_Treatment_Handbook_9th_Edition https://www.cancer.gov/