March 6th is World Lymphedema Day! What is Lymphedema?
Have you ever experienced or seen anyone with swelling in their legs or arms that never decreased or even worsened? No matter if you take diuretics, elevate that part of the body, or rest, the swelling never gets better? This may be lymphedema. Lymphedema is a chronic condition that consists of swelling in any part of the body (legs, arms, head/neck, chest/breast, groin) that is a result of an impairment to the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is an important part of our immune system that consists of lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes. Every day the lymphatic system takes 2 liters of fluid from our body that is filtered through our lymph nodes and either enters our blood stream or our kidneys where we eliminate the fluid through urination.
There are two types of lymphedema: Primary lymphedema and secondary lymphedema. Primary lymphedema is genetic and can occur at birth, after puberty, and before or after menopause. This is typically seen in family members such as parents, aunts, uncles, or grandparents. Maybe these family members always had large leg(s) or large arm(s) that were swollen and either stayed the same or worsened with time. The cause of primary lymphedema is due to abnormal lymphatic system development. Secondary lymphedema is when something causes an impairment to the lymphatic system such as cancer treatment, surgery (especially involving lymph nodes), major injuries, vascular diseases (i.e. chronic venous insufficiency), and more. The most common cause for secondary lymphedema in America is due to cancer treatment such as surgery and radiation. Cancer related secondary lymphedema can occur at any time during or after cancer treatment.
How do I know if I have lymphedema?
Do you have constant swelling that gets worse throughout the day, increases when the weather gets warmer, or swelling that increases with activity? This may be lymphedema, especially if it has persisted for greater than 3 months.
How do I treat lymphedema?
While there is currently no cure for lymphedema, there are management techniques to significantly decrease the swelling, improve overall function, and decrease risk for further complications such as wounds or infections. Lymphedema treatment consists of manual lymph drainage, compression garments, skin care, and exercise. If you think you may have lymphedema, see your primary care physician for a referral to West Texas Therapy. If you have any questions or concerns, please call 432-221-4915 and ask for Kristen Ueeck, PT, DPT, CLT-LANA, the certified lymphedema therapist.