LYMPHEDEMA & VENOUS EDEMA 

Lymphedema is the chronic swelling due to permanent obstruction of pathways that carry lymph fluid from a particular area of the body.

WHAT CAUSES LYMPHEDEMA

• During a mastectomy or prostate surgery sometimes lymph nodes are surgically removed
• Some are born with the defect of having too few or impaired lymphatics or lymph nodes
• Trauma, surgery or radiation can sometimes cause destruction of extensive lymphatic pathways

Not everyone who has had the above health problems develops Lymphedema. In fact, 75% of those who have an impaired or damaged lymph system will not develop Lymphedema. The current pathways may be sufficient for most young people who are post mastectomy, trauma, surgery, etc. Older people are at greater risk of development of Lymphedema due to physiological changes that occur with aging.

Can it be cured?

Currently, there is not a cure for Lymphedema. With early intervention, therapy, and self-management; it can be reduced and controlled.

WHEN DOES IT DEVELOP?

Sometimes a new trauma or injury to an extremity triggers a Lymphedema. Some examples include: injuries, infections, rashes, insect bites, overuse of muscles, sunburn and air travel. When the body sends extra healing fluid to the area, it can overload the lymphatic system which in turn can cause a slowing in the movement of lymph fluid out of the area. As the lymph fluid and tissue waste products collect; the extremity swells and hardens. The bacteria in the fluids can then multiply making it easier for infection to spread rapidly.

PRECAUTIONS CAN HELP DETER LYMPHEDEMA

• Prevent overloading existing lymphatic pathways by avoiding the following:
• Over-use of affected extremity
• Alcohol based lotions and/or harsh deodorants that could lead to skin irritation or breakdown
• Needle sticks in involved extremity
• Blood pressure taken in involved extremity
• Hot tubs
• Insect bites