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Lymphedema

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema can occur when a clear fluid, known as lymphatic fluid, builds up in the soft tissues of your body, usually in an arm or leg.

There are two types of lymphedema:

Inherited lymphedema

Acquired lymphedema

Symptoms:
• Aching, weakness, redness, heaviness, or tightness in one of your limbs

• Less flexibility in your wrist or ankle

• Tight-fitting rings or shoes

Tests For Lymphedema:

• Lymphoscintigraphy
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed tomography (CT) scanning
• Duplex ultrasound
• Lymphangiography

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These suggested precautions can help to prevent or minimize symptoms:

• Clean your affected limb regularly, remembering to dry it thoroughly and apply lotion

• Wear gloves while gardening and cooking

• If you shave the affected area, use an electric razor

• Don't go barefoot

• Do not cross your legs when you sit

• Do not carry a handbag with your affected arm

Avoid having injections and blood pressure readings performed on your affected limb.

Also wear a special bracelet or necklace to notify medical personnel of your risk for lymphedema and the risk for complications: infection.

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Risk Reduction Practices.

Illustration of Lymph Nodes

Illustration of Blood Vessels and Lymph Nodes

Illustration of Lymph Node Structure

Articles of Interest:
Living With Lymphedema, by Catherine Grillo
Routine Screening Of Breast Cancer Patients For Symptoms Of Sub-Clinical Lymphoedema Leads To Better Clinical Outcomes - by Cancerworld.org
Pre-Operative Assessment Allows Early Diagnosis And Successful Treatment Of Lymphedema - by Medical News Today

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