Lymphedema - What is this and how can I manage it?
LYMPHEDEMA - What is this and how can I manage it?
Lymphedema is swelling in the limbs from fluid in the body not draining properly, causing a build-up of lymph fluid.Some cancer surgeries run the risk of the patient getting Lymphadema after the surgery due to lymphs being removed or damaged. After your surgery, it is important to ask your surgeon or your oncologist for compression stockings for the first 6 weeks to help with any swelling that may occur while your body heals. Seek medical advice if you are travelling overseas within 3 months after your surgery as travel on a plane may aggravate lympadema symptoms, causing some swelling or pain to occur.Is there a cure?There's no cure for lymphedema however it can be managed. Treatment will focus on reducing the swelling and preventing any complications.MedicationsLymphedema greatly increases the risk of skin infections (cellulitis). Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for you to keep on hand so that you can start taking them immediately if any symptoms appear.TherapiesSpecialized lymphedema therapists can teach you about techniques and equipment that can help reduce lymphedema swelling. Examples include:
1. Exercises. Gentle contraction of the muscles in the arm or leg can help move the excess fluid out of the swollen limb. At Boost IV, we offer one-on-one classes designed for gentle movement for patients who may not feel confident going to the gym.2. Manual lymph drainage. Therapists trained in this massage-like technique use very light pressure to move the trapped fluid in the swollen limb toward an area with working lymph vessels. People should avoid manual lymph drainage if they have a skin infection, blood clots, or active cancer in the affected limb.3. Compression bandages. Using low-stretch bandages to wrap the entire limb encourages lymph fluid to flow back toward the trunk of the body.4. Compression garments. Close-fitting elastic sleeves or stockings can compress the arm or leg to encourage lymph fluid drainage. These garments often require a prescription to ensure that the proper amount of compression is used. You may need to be measured by a professional to ensure proper fit.5. Nutritional Support. At Boost IV, we offer advice about a healthy diet and supplements to help ensure your body is working correctly to lower the risk of fluid build-up.6. Vibrosaun - Our Vibrosaun is a machine that may support Lympathic drainage with gentle massage and heat. It is very relaxing and will help a patient with various conditions - please refer to our Vibrasaun page for more information on this service.7. Mild Oxygen Therapy. This alternative therapy uses an oxygen chamber, and may assist patients with the lymphatic system. Please refer to our Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen page for more information on this service.