Lymphedema – Causes and Treatment
An abnormality in the lymphatic system obstructs the flow of the lymph throughout the body. When the lymph circulation is obstructed, fluid build up occur in the body tissues. This condition, known as lymphedema, primarily affects the arms and the legs.
Types of lymphedema
Lymphedema can be either primary or secondary. Primary lymphedema is usually a congenital disorder. In women, primary lymphedema usually occurs during puberty. Rarely primary lymphedema occurs in adults after 35. In primary lymphedema, the lymph vessels develop some defect. The defect in the lymph channels is usually congenital.
Valves are not present in the lymph vessels, preventing proper drainage of the lymph fluid in the body. When an underlying disease or condition causes abnormality in the lymphatic system of the body, secondary lymphedema develops. In parasitical infections, parasites might invade the lymph vessels and nodes, obstructing flow of lymph fluid in the body. Cancer cells can obstruct flow of lymph fluids through the lymph vessels and lymph nodes.
Cancer treatment can cause inflammation of the lymph nodes or vessels, obstructing the flow of lymph fluids. Lymphedema often occurs after breast cancer surgery. Removal of lymph nodes or lymph vessels during surgery can obstruct the circulation of the lymph fluid.
Symptoms of lymphedema
In lymphedema, part of the arms and legs or the entire limbs would swell. Your legs and arms will feel heavy and tight. The skin of your limbs will become thick and hard. Your arms and legs might ache. Movement of the limbs will become restricted.
Frequent infections might occur in the arm or leg affected by lymphedema. The exact symptoms of this health disorder will depend on the severity of the condition. Mild lymphedema is hardly noticeable. In case of severe lymphedema, the person affected by this condition could hardly move the affected limb.
Treatment for lymphedema
Lymphedema could not be cured completely. The treatment of this lymphatic disorder tries to reduce some of the debilitating symptoms. To prevent recurrent infections that would worsen the condition of the affected limbs, you should clean your skin properly everyday.
If you notice cuts or blisters, you should treat them instantly. Apply a soothing lotion such as aloe vera gel to reduce the dryness of the skin. Through regular exercises, the joint mobility and lymph flow could be preserved. To reduce the swelling, the affected limb is wrapped with a bandage or compressions garments.
