Lymphedema
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a condition where lymph fluid builds up in the soft tissues usually in the arms or legs. Protein-rich lymph fluid is normally filtered by the lymph nodes before being released into the bloodstream. When the lymph nodes are not able to filter the fluid at full capacity, it collects and causes swelling. Lymphedema is usually a chronic condition. Left untreated, it can lead to irreversible skin changes, frequent infections, poor mobility and reduced quality of life.
What causes Lymphedema?
There are two main types of Lymphedema:
Primary Lymphedema is caused by faulty development of lymph nodes and/or blood vessels. While the condition may be present at birth, symptoms often don’t appear until later. It usually occurs in the legs but can affect the entire body. This condition mainly affects women.
Secondary Lymphedema is usually caused when the lymph nodes and/or blood vessels are removed by surgery or are damaged by another condition (eg as a complication of radiation treatment).
Secondary Lymphedema can also be caused by a tropical parasitic infection called lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis) or by an overloaded lymphatic system due to recurrent skin infections, problems with blood vessels or obesity. It usually appears in the same part of the body as the absent or injured lymph nodes.
What are the symptoms of Lymphedema?
Some of the common symptoms of Lymphedema include:
Swelling, heaviness, tightness or itching in the affected part of the body
Swelling that gets worse over time that reduces your mobility in the affected part of the body (usually arm or leg)
Skin problems (including repeated infections) hardening or thickening of skin in more advanced stages of the condition
How is Lymphedema diagnosed?
A vascular surgeon can usually diagnose Lymphedema by taking a medical history and observing your symptoms with a physical exam. For example, if you have a history of painless leg swelling or have had lymph nodes removed or damaged. Further scans may be needed to work out the best treatment options for you.
How is Lymphedema treated?
The treatment for Lymphedema depends on at what stage your condition is diagnosed. In general terms, early and aggressive treatment is considered the best way to manage Lymphedema.
Stage 1 Lymphedema
No permanent soft tissue changes. Swelling can be reversed by elevating the affected limb and by wearing compression garments.
Stage 2 Lymphedema
Some scarring in the affected tissues. Swelling can be reduced by compression wrapping with low-stretch bandages worn 24 hours a day, supplemented with massage therapy and exercise.
Stage 3 Lymphedema
Skin thickening and hardening in affected tissues. Swelling can be managed with use of compression garments and/or pneumatic compression sleeves that inflate/deflate to help propel lymphatic fluid. Surgery may be recommended to remove excess tissue or bypass obstructed lymph vessels.
How do I prevent Lymphedema?
While you may not be able to prevent it, there are certainly things you can do to manage Lymphedema if you are diagnosed with the condition.
Wear compression garments and use pumps as prescribed by your doctor
Elevate the affected limb whenever you can
Stay active by doing regular moderate exercise while wearing your compression garments
Eat a healthy, balanced, low salt diet
Take extra care of your skin on the affected area by wearing protective clothing, cleansing and moisturising regularly, and trying to avoid infections as best you can.
Talk to your doctor
If you have any questions about Lymphedema, speak to the team at Vascular Associates.