Hello Friends!
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema (High Protein Edema) is the swelling of the subcutaneous tissues caused by obstruction of the lymphatic drainage. Lymphedema results from fluid accumulation and may arise from surgery, radiation or the presence of a tumor in the area of the lymph nodes, i.e. when lymph vessels are missing or damaged, or when lymph nodes are removed.
If you've had or are going to have cancer surgery, ask your doctor whether your procedure will involve your lymph nodes or lymph vessels. Ask if your radiation treatment will be aimed at lymph nodes, so you'll be aware of the possible risks.
Risk Factors for lymphedema -
Congenital causes
Obesity
Trauma
Surgery (unrelated to cancer)
Surgery (related to cancer)
Radiation
Sentinel lymph node biopsy
Scar tissue
Malignancy
Infection
Inflammation
Injury/Trauma
Heat
Changes in Elevation
Some early signs of Lymphedema can be:
Puffiness or swelling of your hand or arm
Clothing, bra, or jewelry feel tighter than usual
Jewelry or clothing leave a dent or mark on your skin
A feeling of fullness in your breast, chest, or arm
A sensation of heaviness or fatigue in your arm • An area of your skin that is red or warm to the touch
To reduce your risk of Lymphedema, try to:
Wash any cuts with soap and water.
Wear gloves while gardening, doing dishes, or housework.
Protect yourself from insect bites.
Use skin cream to avoid chapped, dry, or broken skin.
Avoid sunburns, use sunblock with an SPF of 30 or more.
Avoid scratches or bites from pets.
Be careful with sharp objects or edges.
Do not cut your cuticles (the skin around your nails) during a manicure or pedicure. Tip: Push back the nail cuticles instead.
Choose a nail salon that is clean and uses sterile instruments. Tip: Some people bring their own instruments with them.
Avoid repeated punctures of the skin on the treated side. For example, blood tests or finger sticks to check blood sugars. Contact your health care provider if an area of your arm or chest becomes red, painful or swollen, or if you have fever or chills. These symptoms can be signs of infection.
Rest your arm or leg while recovering. After cancer treatment, exercise and stretching are encouraged. But avoid strenuous activity until you've recovered from surgery or radiation.
Avoid heat on your arm or leg. Don't apply ice or heat, such as with a heating pad, to your affected limb. Also, protect your affected limb from extreme cold.
Elevate your arm or leg. Whenever possible, elevate your affected limb above the level of your heart.
Avoid tight clothing. Avoid anything that could constrict your arm or leg, such as tight fitting clothing and, in the case of your arm, blood pressure cuffs. Ask that your blood pressure be taken in your other arm.
Airplane Travel
If you do not have Lymphedema, there is no evidence that you need to wear a compression sleeve as “prevention” when traveling.
If you have Lymphedema, use your compression sleeve when flying. A great resource is the Lymphedivas
As the length of flights and frequency of travel varies, you should discuss the use of a compression sleeve with your physician, nurse, or physical therapist
Developing Lymphedema is a possibility, but it is not a certainty. Be mindful but not fearful about using your effected limb. As always discuss your questions with your doctor, nurse, or physical therapist.
In Heart,
Hollie M. Audelo-Swart, LFT, OTE, CMRM