Are You At Risk For Lymphedema?

Kathy Bates is just one of more than 10 million Americans who suffer from lymphedema. Yet few people know much about the disease. Here’s a quick overview of what you need to know about lymphedema.

What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is swelling caused by a collection of too much lymph fluid. This protein-rich liquid circulates through the body through lymph vessels to collect and carry bacteria, viruses and waste products to the lymph nodes, which then filters and flushes the harmful substances from the body.

There are two types of lymphedema. Primary lymphedema is a genetic disease in which the lymphatic system fails to develop properly before birth. Secondary lymphedema is much more common and has multiple causes, including:

  • Removal of the lymph nodes: Some cancer surgeries require that the lymph nodes be removed. The incidence of secondary lymphedema among cancer survivors is 20 to 40 percent.
  • Injury to the lymph nodes:Physical trauma can also cause lymphedema. As a result, wounded veterans have a higher risk for developing lymphedema.
  • Radiation treatment for cancer:Radiation can cause inflammation or scarring of the lymph nodes.
  • Cancer:A tumor growing near a lymph node or vessel can block the flow of the lymph fluid.

Symptoms of Lymphedema
Talk to your physician if you have the following symptoms, especially in your arm or leg.

  • Swelling
  • Pain and discomfort
  • Restricted range of motion
  • Recurring infections
  • Hardening and thickening of the skin

Complications of Lymphedema
Lymphedema can lead to a serious bacterial infection called cellulitis. Even a small cut, scrape or burn to the skin that has lymphedema can be an entry point for this infection.

Be Aware of Your Risks
If you are planning to have cancer surgery, be sure to ask your doctor if any lymph nodes or lymph vessels will be removed. If you are having radiation therapy, find out if the treatment will be targeting any lymph nodes. Talk to your doctor about how you can reduce your risk for lymphedema after the surgery or procedure is performed. For example, you should elevate, rest and protect your arm or leg and not apply any heat or ice. Avoid tight clothing and keep the arm or leg clean.

Treatment of Lymphedema
Lymphedema is not a curable disease. Treatment focuses on reducing the swelling and the pain.

  • Light exercise can stimulate drainage of the lymph fluid.
  • Compression garments, long sleeves or stockings, apply pressure to move the lymph fluid out of the affected limb.
  • Pneumatic compression uses a pump that inflates a sleeve to put pressure on the lymph fluid.
  • Massage by a specially trained professional can also be affective.

Sources: webMD, Lymphatic Education and Research Network, Mayo Clinic