- Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under the skin.
- Cancer tests & treatments that could possibly lead to lymphedema are:
- Mastectomy
- Lumpectomy
- Lymph node removal or biopsy
- Radiation treatment
- Use of the drug Tamoxifen
- Those at risk of developing lymphedema include:
- Those who have lymph nodes removed and/or receive radiation therapy
- Women who receive radiation therapy for ovarian or cervical cancer
- Anyone receiving conventional treatment for head and neck cancer
- Possible symptoms of lymphedema include:
- Swelling on the affected side of the body/area
- Clothing or jewelry may feel tight
- Tightness/fullness in the arm or leg
- Weakness or decreased flexibility in arm, hand, or leg
- Tension pain or uncomfortable sensation
- Skin that remains indented after finger pressure or skin that does not indent at all when pressed
- Hardened, red, or shiny skin
- Heavy feeling in the arm or leg
- Infections that do not heal or that recur in the same area
- Swelling of the eyelids, lips, or face (head and neck cancers)
- Difficulty swallowing, breathing, or talking (head and neck cancers)
- Other unusual occurrences in the affected area
- 6 foundational lymphedema treatments:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
- Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
- Acupuncture
- Self-massage
- Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
- Hydrotherapy
- Last resort treatments include:
- Microsurgery
- Lymph node transplants
- Compression pumps
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)
- Ways to minimize lymphedema risks:
- Wear gloves when gardening
- Avoid sunburn and use non-toxic sunscreen
- If receiving manicures bring your own tools, don’t cut your cuticles, and keep skin well moisturized
- Avoid Jacuzzis, saunas, and hot baths
- Avoid insect bites
- Remind medical professionals to draw blood and place pressure cuffs only on the unaffected arm
Wednesday, October 31, 2018
ARTICLE: "LYMPHEDEMA: CAUSES, SYMPTONS & TREATMENT OPTIONS"
Lymphedema: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options
by Elyn Jacobs
From The Truth About Cancer website
Below is an summary from the article . To read the article in its entirety, click on the link below:
ARTICLE SUMMARY
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