Learn About Medical Conditions

Lymphedema

Lymphedema is chronic swelling, usually in the arms or legs, that occurs as a result of impaired lymphatic system. While it is commonly seen in women who have been treated for breast cancer, lymphedema can occur in anyone—men, women, and children.

There are two types of Lymphedema:

Primary Lymphedema is caused by an abnormality of the lymphatic system that can be present at birth, develop at or around the onset of puberty, or develop after the age of thirty-five.

Secondary Lymphedema, the most common type, has many causes including:

• Surgery, in particular when lymph nodes are removed after treatment of cancer: breast, prostate, gynecological, head or neck, melanoma. The swelling may occur soon after surgery or many years later
• Radiation therapy which kills cancer cells but damages the lymphatic system
• Trauma or injury
• Venous insufficiency

What treatments are available?

Prevention is the first line of defense with lymphedema. Individuals who are at risk of developing this condition should avoid trauma to the affected limb where an infection could start. (For example, needle sticks for shots or drawing blood, bug bites etc.). Compression sleeves and wrappings may help prevent onset, especially in high risk situations like a pressurized aircraft cabin.

Once the condition is present, management techniques include manual lymph drainage, compression bandaging, excercise and skin care.

Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health