What is Lymphedema?

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema happens when the lymphatic system is disturbed, leading to swelling in various areas of the body. The system removes extra fluid, proteins, and toxins from cells and tissues, then returns them to the bloodstream.

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If your lymphatic system is not functioning properly, fluid buildup in the body can lead to swelling, most commonly in the extremities but potentially elsewhere as well. This condition, known as lymphedema, also raises the chances of infection at the affected sites.

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Lymphedema may develop following particular surgeries or as a result of specific medical conditions or genetic conditions. It can develop suddenly, without a clear reason.

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Lymphedema symptoms can range from mild swelling and discomfort to severe swelling that causes pain, skin issues like infections and wounds. Healthcare providers can provide treatments to help with reducing swelling and discomfort in lymphedema, even though it cannot be cured. Additionally, there are various actions you can take to minimize the effects of lymphedema on your daily life.

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What does that swelling look and feel like?

Swelling caused by lymphedema is typically located in the arms or legs. Symptoms may involve:

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• An arm or leg experiencing a sensation of heaviness or fullness.
• Skin in the swollen area feeling tight
• Limited range of motion in joints located in the arms, legs, hands, and feet.
• Skin becoming thicker
• Itching in the legs or toes
• A burning feeling in the legs

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Who is at risk for lymphedema?

There are two types of lymphedema:

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• Primary lymphedema is a condition that affects approximately 1 in 8,000 people worldwide due to poorly developed lymphatic systems.
• Secondary lymphedema is the most common type of lymphedema that caused by damage to the lymphatic system, frequently due to treatments for cancer or parasite infections. It is estimated that about 1 in 1,000 Americans experience secondary lymphedema, with a global impact affecting between 140 million and 250 million individuals.

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Cancer and its treatment can frequently result in secondary lymphedema. Pressure from tumors can lead to blockages in lymph nodes, and radiation can result in scar tissue formation, affecting fluid flow in the lymphatic system. In some cases, surgery to eliminate cancer-affected organs or tissues may also involve the removal of lymph nodes.

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What causes lymphedema?

There are various factors that can lead to lymphedema, such as:

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• Breast cancer surgery: In certain cases, surgery for breast cancer may involve the removal of lymph nodes located in the armpit area, which could potentially impact the nearby lymphatic vessels.
• Pelvic surgery: Lymphedema can be a result of the surgical removal of pelvic lymph nodes.
• Radiation therapy: Radiating therapy can result in scarring and damage to the lymphatic system, which can cause skin inflammation and affect lymphatic circulation.
• Trauma: Lymphedema may develop as a result of damage to the vessels in your lymphatic system, which can be found close to the surface of your skin and deep within your body. Swelling and fluid retention may result from trauma to a specific area.
• Infection: Infection can lead to further complications in the lymphatic system.
• Having obesity: Obesity may lead to fat buildup that could compress lymph nodes and vessels, causing disruptions in lymphatic drainage.
• Lack of activity: Inactive muscles can lead to poor lymphatic circulation, causing swelling in the legs. Stay active to keep your legs healthy and prevent fluid buildup.
• Tumors: Lymphatic drainage can be blocked by tumors.
• Heart conditions: Heart problems, such as congestive heart failure, can lead to the development of lymphedema. The vessels of the lymphatic system return lymph fluid to the heart. If your heart is not functioning properly, you may experience weight gain or swelling in your legs.
• Blood vessel issues: The majority of fluid in your body is transported by your blood vessels, ranging from 80% to 90%. If there is any disruption to your vascular system, chronic blood vessel issues may arise. Lymphedema can be caused by chronic blood vessel issues.
• Kidney disease: If your kidneys are not working properly, they may struggle to eliminate excess fluid and waste from your body. This can result in swelling and potentially lead to the development of lymphedema.

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Lymphedema Treatment

The treatment of lymphedema will be customized based on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Treatment usually includes techniques that help the drainage of lymphatic fluid from the affected area, such as physical therapy, compression clothing, and bandaging. Specialized physical therapists with expertise in lymphedema can provide guidance on these treatment options.

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Treatments might include:

• Compression garments: Compression sleeves or stockings are worn snugly to promote lymph fluid circulation in the affected limb.
• ‍Bandages:By properly wrapping them around your body, these garments can help in directing lymph fluid towards your torso. These can also be worn to prevent excess lymph fluid from returning to the affected limb.‍
• Lymphedema massage: A gentle massage that helps redirect fluid from areas of swelling to healthier parts of the body, where it can be removed by functioning lymph vessels. This technique, also known as manual lymph drainage, can be self-administered.‍
• Lymphedema pump: The pump-controlled compression sleeve aids in the movement of lymph fluid in your arm or leg by applying and releasing pressure regularly.‍
• Lymphedema exercise: Promote lymph drainage and enhance the strength of the affected limb by softly engaging the muscles in the area.‍
• Medications: If your lymphedema is caused by an infection, your doctor might recommend antibiotics to treat it. Additionally, they have the option to provide pain relief by prescribing medication.

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‍Surgery for lymphedema

In cases of severe lymphedema resistant to other treatments, your doctor may suggest one of the following procedures:

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• Lymphatic bypass: In a surgical procedure, a surgeon connects your lymphatic system to your blood vessels so that lymph fluid can move into your veins.
• ‍Lymph node transplant: Lymphedema treatment involves moving healthy lymph nodes from one part of your body to the area where lymphedema is present.‍
• Fibrous tissue removal: In situations when the skin hardens and limits movement, a medical professional might suggest removing this fibrous tissue using liposuction or surgical procedures.

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