Lymphedema affects as many as 5 million people in the United States. Majority of individuals develop “Secondary Lymphedema” after undergoing cancer treatment. Specific surgeries, such as surgery for melanoma and breast puts patients at RISK for developing “Secondary Lymphedema.” Breast cancer-related lymphedema is generally found in the arm, hand and trunk. This surgery usually requires removing lymph nodes to stop the spread of disease. It’s a known FACT, Lymphedema is a devastating complication of cancer treatment. Living a normal life with Lymphedema can be very hard. Before we go any further on helpful facts about living a Normal Life with Lymphedema, let’s educate ourselves about Lymphedema.
What is Lymphedema?
Lymph is a colorless fluid containing white blood cells. Lymphedema is a condition in which lymph builds up in the tissues and causes swelling. Your lymphatic system collects excess fluid, proteins and toxins from your cells and tissues and returns them to your bloodstream. Lymphedema is a swelling caused by the accumulation of lymph fluid and occurs when lymph vessels or lymph nodes are blocked or removed. Swelling usually develops in your Arms, Legs and Feet. Lymphedema symptom’s may be mild with some discomfort, or you may have significant Swelling that can be PAINFUL! A severe condition can cause skin issues, and risk of developing infections and wounds where you have the condition.
SYMPTOMS to LOOK for:
⦁ Minor to Severe Swelling in the area affected.
⦁ Arms & Legs feel uncomfortably Heavy or Full.
⦁ Your skin seems puffy or red, could burn or itch.
⦁ Your skin becomes noticeable thicker, tingling or aching.
⦁ Your arms & legs appear to be slightly different sizes.
⦁ Loss of Flexibility, tightness in joints.
⦁ Your clothes and jewelry fit more tightly than usual.
Lymphedema is a tough condition. Lymphedema is INCURABLE! However, there are things you can do to limit the impact lymphedema may have on your quality of life. Living a normal life with lymphedema is not impossible.
9 Steps to (HELP) Control and Manage Your Symptoms:
- Wear loose jewelry and clothing, without bands or elastic.
- Monitor your Body: Measuring affected areas to keep track of changes and signs of lymphedema before it gets out of control.
- Keep Moving: your arm and leg muscles while moving keep fluids and nutrients moving in your body and bloodstream.
- AVOID extreme temperatures: such as saunas or ice packs.
- Do Not cross your legs when sitting, because it discourages healthy blood circulation.
- Try to maintain normal weight, gaining excess weight is a Big Risk for further complications, more swelling and infections.
- Do Not carry heavy bags or other items on the affected arm.
- Do Not use a blood pressure Cuff on affected arm.
- Try Compression Garments: Flexible Compression stockings or Arm Sleeves. The right amount of pressure applied to the affected area; Helps keep lymph flowing through the lymphedema system. This HELPS Reduce Swelling and Pain. Always speak to a (Certified Fitter) to ensure Lymphedema garments fit properly to do the job.
Note: This well-known medical article regarding the importance of Compression Garments for Lymphedema. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/compression-sleeves-for-lymphedema/ Note what the writer says, “Compression sleeves are suitable for people who have mild stage 1 lymphedema. For individuals with stage 2 or 3 lymphedema, a process called complete decongestive therapy may initially reduce swelling. A person could then use a compression sleeve.” Some people only need to wear a compression sleeve when they have lymphedema flare-ups, while others should wear one every day. Compression sleeves fit snugly to the arm from the wrist to the shoulder and are tighter at the bottom than the top. This fitting helps lymph flow up the arm to the lymph nodes in the armpit. Compression sleeves come in a range of colors, which include different skin tones and various prints.
Check out our Best Price / Best Quality – Lymphedema Arm Sleeve, for your everyday comfort and Relief. $49.88 / 2 for $90.00 / Free Shipping within 24 Hours. - https://www.rescuelegs.com/Lymphedema-ArmSleeve/COUTURE-Lymphedema-ArmSleeve-Compression-20-30mmHg/
Please call our Toll Free # (844) 629-9642. One of our Certified Fitting Specialists will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help with your arm measurements, providing you with the proper fit.
We ask if you have any questions related to your health or Lymphedema condition, to consult your doctor or medical physician. The information presented here is informative only and is not medical advice.
Posted on September-24-2023 by Jamie Marion