Pronounced: lim-fah-DEE-ma
The lymph system helps your body fight illness. Lymph fluid travels throughout the body in lymph nodes and vessels. If these nodes or vessels are damaged or missing the fluid builds up. Fluid build-up in the arms or legs is called lymphedema. There are two types of lymphedema:
While there is no cure for lymphedema, it can be controlled. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor promptly for treatment.
Lymphedema can be caused by a variety of factors:
These factors increase your chance of developing lymphedema. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to lymphedema. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:
Cases of lymphedema can vary from mild to severe. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Tests may include the following:
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Options include the following:
Your doctor or physical therapist may show you exercises to drain fluid out of your arm or leg. Massage may also be used to help fluid draining. Sometimes external pumps are used to help drain the fluid build-up.
Compression stockings, sleeves, or bandages are often used to direct fluid away from your affected arm or leg. You may be shown how to apply a compression device.
Areas of lymphedema are at risk for infection. Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to prevent or treat infection. If the condition is painful your doctor may suggest or prescribe a pain reliever.
Surgery to remove extra tissue from your arm or leg may be considered in severe cases.
If you are at risk for developing lymphedema, there are measures you can take to help reduce your chance of getting the condition:
RESOURCES:
The National Cancer Institute
http://www.cancer.gov
The National Lymphedema Network
http://www.lymphnet.org/
Society for Vascular Surgery
http://www.vascularweb.org/index.html
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Cancer Society
http://www.cancer.ca/
Lymphedema Association of Quebec
http://www.infolympho.ca/
Lymphovenous Canada
http://www.lymphovenous-canada.ca/
References:
Lymphedema. Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/lymphedema/DS00609 . Accessed November 3, 2008.
Lymphedema. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/lymphedema/patient . Accessed November 3, 2008.
Lymphedema. Society for Vascular Surgery website. Available at: http://www.vascularweb.org/patients/NorthPoint/Lymphedema.html . Accessed November 3, 2008.
What is lymphedema? The National Lymphedema Network website. Available at: http://www.lymphnet.org/lymphedemaFAQs/overview.htm . Accessed November 3, 2008.
Last reviewed November 2008 by Igor Puzanov, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.