Lymphedema Treatment

Lymphedema is swelling caused by lymphatic fluid.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is swelling usually occurring in one arm or leg. If it occurs in more than one arm or leg the swelling will be asymmetrical, that is, one will be larger than the other. The swelling is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the superficial tissues just below the skin.

What Causes Lymphedema?

Primary Lymphedema is due to congenital malformations of the lymphatic system. Swelling may be present at birth, or it can occur later in life. Usually, if occurring later in life, it will cause swelling of one or both legs.

Secondary Lymphedema can occur following trauma, surgery, radiation, inflammation, or infection.

Who Has Lymphedema?

It is estimated that 2.5 million people in the United States have lymphedema.

Why Should It Be Treated?

The swelling progresses slowly, and if untreated can lead to other problems such as skin changes, skin breakdown, and infection. Also, there may be loss of motion and strength making normal activities difficult.

What Is Lymphedema Treatment?

Each patient receives individualized treatment based on their medical history and their needs and goals, usually for 2-4 weeks.

Complete decongestive therapy is the most effective treatment. The 4 major components of this are:

1. Manual Lymph Drainage: this is a gentle manual technique applied to the skin to help stimulate the lymphatic system and move the fluid out of the affected area.
2. Compression therapy: this consists of the application of short stretch compression bandages, and later compression garments to reduce the swelling and prevent it from re-accumulating in the affected area.
3. Exercise: gentle exercise is performed to assist in reducing the swelling. If there is loss of motion or strength, additional exercises may be taught.
4. Skin Care: good skin care is vital to prevent infections and skin breakdown. It is also important to know the signs of possible infection, including fungal infection, and inflammation of the vein or deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in the vein). If you suspect that you have any of these you should stop treatment and consult your physician immediately. Your doctor will then issue new orders when you are able to resume treatment.

Signs of infection include redness of the skin, increased temperature, increased swelling, fever or chills, rash or itchiness.

Signs of possible inflammation of the vein or blood clot include a sudden increase in your swelling with pain and maybe redness of the leg or arm.

Home Program

All patients will receive individual instruction on a home program to improve and reduce their swelling, including self-manual lymph drainage, and self-bandaging.

Preventative Measures

To reduce the risk of developing or worsening lymphedema the following are a few tips:

Practice good skin care:

• Use fragrance-free and alcohol-free soaps and lotions
• Cover skin if gardening or playing with pets to avoid scratches and insect bites
• Avoid injections or blood pressure cuffs on affected area
• Avoid extreme temperatures
• Avoid hot baths, hot tubs, saunas, hot or cold packs to the affected area

Also:

• Avoid massage to affected area
• Avoid tight clothing/tight jewelry
• Avoid lifting and carrying heavy items

A physician referral is required for treatment. Most insurance plans are accepted.