What is Lymphedema?

The following information is provided to better help you understand the condition of Lymphedema.

1 What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a swelling of an arm or leg, (or any other part of the body) resulting from an accumulation of fluids. Lymphedema occurs when the lymph vessel system has been damaged and is not able to remove extra fluid from the tissues. The lymph system can be damaged by trauma or impaired through surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapeutic agents. This form of Lymphedema is known as “Secondary Lymphedema”.   In Primary Lymphedema, the lymph vessel system is underdeveloped with too few or too many vessels or obstructed pathways.  Lymphedema can be present at birth, begin during puberty or have its’ onset as late as the age of 35.

2. What is the lymph system?

The lymph system is a mesh-like system of small vessels which takes fluid and wastes products from the tissues and organs. The lymphatic system is our defense system. It is the system that keeps us healthy.

3. How does Lymphedema occur?

When the lymph vessel system is damaged as through surgery, cancer, radiation etc, the system cannot efficiently remove the fluids from the tissues. (Like a puddle that forms after a heavy rainstorm because the drain system could not remove all the water. The system is overwhelmed)

After a time the lymph vessel system fails and fluid stays in the tissues causing the limb to swell and not go down. As the fluids do not circulate as well, the chance for infection increases. Therefore it is of utmost importance to keep the skin intact, avoid any injuries, scraps, burns etc. that can allow bacteria to enter through the pores and possibly cause an infection.

Lymphedema is a chronic condition and left untreated, the limb can continue to increase in size.  Lymphedema can be managed with the appropriate treatment and care.

4. What is the treatment of Lymphedema?

Once Lymphedema has been diagnosed, treatment should begin as soon as possible. The earlier therapy is started, the better the results.  Therapy for lymphedema is called Complex Decongestive Therapy which includes:

• Manual Lymph Drainage
• Compression bandaging
• Skin care
• Education

The goal of therapy is to reduce the swelling, increase the lymph flow to other areas of the body that are not affected and provide the person with enough knowledge and skills to maintain the reduction.

CDP should be done by a certified practitioner who has received at least 135 hours of continuing education from a recoginzed school.  (See therapist referral list)