When we think about lymphedema treatment, the first thing that comes to our mind is some of fluid drainage system to reduce the swellings. This is not always so. To understand the treatment of Lymphedema, we have to understand what this condition is and its symptoms are.
Lymphedema is a condition which occurs when the normal drainage of fluids from the blood vessels into the lymph system is impaired or excessive fluid is drained into the spaces between the tissue cells.
The resulting collection of fluid causes swelling of the tissues. The lymphatic system is important in that it helps to drain fluid away from the tissues in the body and helps fight infections. When the system is not working effectively it leads to lymphedema. Lymphedema mainly affects in the single leg or arm but in some instants it occurs in both legs and arms.
Lymphedema which is caused by birth defect is known lymphedema although it is present at birth, it only becomes apparent later on in life. Secondary lymphedema disorder occurs when the lymphatic system malfunctions due to blockage or is damaged. This occurs mainly after radiation treatment. The main cause of this condition is a parasite known as Wuchereria bancrofti, which infests the lymph nodes. It is usually spread by mosquitoes.
The main symptom of lymphedema is the swelling in the limbs. Other symptoms include:
- Fatigue, due to stress placed on the swollen legs
- Scarring of the tissues of the affected area
- Thickening of the skin in the affected area
- The skin has the appearance of the orange skin
- The skin may become scaly and sore to the touch
- Sometimes there is bacterial or fungal infections of the skin
Usually in diagnosing the swelling, the patient’s medical history is studied in order to determine cause of the swelling. The medical history involving the lymph nodes will indicate proper diagnosis and treatment.
There is no real cure for lymphedema but it can, however, be controlled and managed. When it comes to treatment, the primary goals are to:
- Reduce the swelling
- Enhance the flow of the lymph and improve circulation
- Enable the patient to manage the condition with the least discomfort as possible
- Control the condition to prevent further complications
The doctor should make the patient understand the condition and present to him lymphedema treatment options so that the patient is in a better postion to deal with the treatments and cope can cope better with situation.
Lymphedema treatments include physiotherapy, medications and surgery.
Physiotherapy includes:
- Exercise
- Lymphatic drainage massage, known as manual lymph drainage
- Skin and nail care
- Compression bandaging
- Compression using Elastic sleeves or stockings
- Pneumatic lymphedema pumps which are connected to stockings. This provides compression from the tip of the limb towards the body
Medications include:
- Antibiotics to prevent infections of skin and tissues
- Corticosteroids
- Benzopyrones
- Diethylcarbamazine
Surgical options include:
- Liposuction
- Reconstructive microsurgery
- Surgical removal of excess fluids
The consulting doctor, considering the medical history may advise the patient with best option to treat his patient. As part of the lymphedema treatment, the patient must be trained on the skills needed to continue this treatment at home. These may include:
- Self massage to drain the excess fluid from the tissues
- Skin hygiene so that the affected skin will not crack and get infected
- Exercise routine that will help him maintain the flow of the lymph and increase mobility of the joints and muscles and control weight
- Compression methods to prevent swelling
The doctor can recommend changes in lifestyle so that the patient can control their symptoms and live a normal day to day life.
Other things the patient can do to avoid aggravating the condition are:
- Reduce salt intake
- Have a good diet plan that includes omega-3 fatty and monounsaturated fatty acids such as fish, flax and olive oils, and almonds. The diet must include vegetables and fruits in natural form
- Avoid being constipated. Constipation hinders proper fluid circulation
- The patient should avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time
- Keep the body hydrated
- Avoid wearing tight garments that might restrict the body fluid circulation
All these points will help the patient in the lymphedema treatment process or reduce the risk of developing lymphedema and help him to live a normal life.