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:

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/lymphedema-causes-symptoms-treatment/?utm_campaign&utm_medium=organic&utm_source=fb-ttac&utm_content=lymphedema-causes&a_aid=59c13831797bc&fbclid=IwAR2rlA5IBIEozwT2W0ZMtLPcppDZEWmIyQpviCR7oNuzQNq-Jmk8k32of6s

ARTICLE SUMMARY

• 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