They may refer you to a specialist lymphoedema treatment centre for further assessment. In many cases, lymphoedema can be diagnosed from your symptoms and medical history, and by examining the affected body part and measuring the distance around it to see if it's enlarged. There's no cure for lymphoedema, but it's usually possible to control the main symptoms using techniques to minimise fluid build-up and stimulate the flow of fluid through the lymphatic system.
These include wearing compression garments, taking good care of your skin, moving and exercising regularly, having a healthy diet and lifestyle, and using specialised massage techniques. Read more about treating lymphoedema and preventing lymphoedema. Cellulitis is the most common complication of lymphoedema. It can also have a significant psychological impact. It can be serious if it's not treated quickly. If you have lymphoedema, the build-up of fluid in your tissues makes you more vulnerable to infection.
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep layer of skin dermis that often affects people with lymphoedema. Cellulitis can also sometimes cause lymphoedema. Antibiotics taken by mouth orally can usually be used to treat cellulitis, although severe cases may need to be treated in hospital with antibiotics given directly into a vein intravenously.
Living with a long-term condition that affects your appearance can cause a great deal of distress and lead to periods of depression.
You may be depressed if you've been feeling down for the past few months and no longer find pleasure in things you usually enjoy. Learn more. Lymphedema is a problem that may occur after cancer surgery when lymph nodes are removed. Lymphedema can occur months or years after treatment. But steps can be taken to help keep it from starting, and to reduce or relieve symptoms.
If left untreated, lymphedema can get worse. Getting treatment right away can lower your risk of infections and complications. The lymphatic system is a network of tiny vessels and small, bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes that carry lymph throughout the body.
Lymph is a clear, colorless fluid that contains a few blood cells. It starts in many organs and tissues. The lymphatic system is part of your immune system. It helps protect and maintain the fluid balance of your body by filtering and draining lymph and waste products away from each body region.
The lymphatic system also helps the body fight infection. During surgery for cancer, nearby lymph nodes are often removed. This disrupts the flow of lymph, which can lead to swelling. This is lymphedema. Lymphedema can affect one or both arm, the head and neck, the belly, the genitals, or the legs.
Swelling can worsen and become severe. Skin sores or other problems can develop. Affected areas are also more likely to become infected. Often during breast cancer treatment , some or all of the lymph nodes under the arm are treated with radiation. The lymph nodes under the arm are also called the axillary lymph nodes. They drain the lymphatic vessels from the upper arms, from most of the breast, and from the chest, neck, and underarm area. When many lymph nodes under the arm have been removed, a woman is at higher risk of lymphedema for the rest of her life.
Radiation treatments to the under arm lymph nodes can cause scarring and blockages that further increase the risk of lymphedema. Lymphedema may occur right after surgery or radiation, or months or even years later.
A mild type of lymphedema can occur within a few days after surgery and usually lasts a short time. Reach her at dmapes fredhutch. Donate Now. Hutch News Stories. A little known side effect with a huge impact.
Breast cancer survivor Rebecca Thomas began experiencing symptoms of lymphedema several years after her treatment. Custom compression sleeves are a common treatment for lymphedema but Medicare and many other insurance companies don't cover them.
Thomas, who couldn't afford the out-of-pocket expense, said she simply "learned to live with it. What breakthroughs are coming next? Sign up for news.
Breast cancer oncologist and health economist Dr. SCCA physical therapist Carol Baltaxe said if patients don't have compression, the lymphedema will "slowly get worse over time. Patients can also get assistance through the National Lymphedema Network. Photo courtesy of Carol Baltaxe. Cindy Alsobrook developed lymphedema in her left leg shortly after going through surgery, chemo and radiation for cervical cancer.
Rude stares and repeated infections Seattle cancer survivor Cindy Alsobrook, 42, developed lymphedema in her left leg shortly after she finished surgery, chemo and radiation for cervical cancer in December Lymphedema and the law But even if lymphedema is diagnosed early, treatment may not be covered by insurance.
Without compression, the lymphedema flourished. Prevention is key. If you do experience the signs of lymphedema—swelling, pain, numbness, decreased mobility, or skin changes—tell your healthcare team right away. Your doctor may suggest that you see a physical therapist to help treat the lymphedema with massages, compression, and special exercises. If you are at risk for lymphedema, avoid the following: If you had lymph nodes removed from under your arm, do not have your blood pressure taken from that arm.
Do not have blood drawn or receive shots or IVs in an area where lymph nodes have been removed. Use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to avoid sunburns.
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