Lymphedema is a condition that causes fluid to build up in the lymphatic vessels, usually due to surgery, radiation therapy, cancer, or infection. It occurs when the lymphatic vessel is unable to drain fluid well and is usually seen on the arm or leg. While there is no cure, some steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing it.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Identify the Risk Factors
Step 1. Know the functions of the lymphatic system
The lymphatic system plays a vital role in the normal functioning of the body. It is responsible for the circulation of lymphatic fluids in different parts of the body and for the collection of waste products such as bacteria and viruses. It therefore carries the fluids along with the toxic substances into the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, where the lymphocytes filter waste products and expel them from the body.
Step 2. Recognize what can cause primary lymphedema
This is very rare and is usually associated with genetic abnormalities that prevent the lymphatic vessels in the body from maturing. Women are at greater risk of contracting this disease. Among the various causes are:
- Milroy's disease (congenital lymphedema). It is a type of inherited disease that generally begins in childhood. It causes abnormal lymph node growth which later evolves into lymphedema.
- Meige's disease (early lymphedema). This is also an inherited disease that causes lymphedema to progress during puberty, although it sometimes develops between the ages of 20 and 30. The disease is the formation of lymphatic vessels without a certain valve that prevents lymphatic fluid from flowing back into the system. This phenomenon makes it difficult for the body to be able to effectively drain the fluids in the limbs.
- Late onset of lymphedema (late lymphedema). A very rare congenital disease that often begins around age 35.
Step 3. Understand the causes of secondary lymphedema
Damage to the lymph nodes or lymph vessels leads to the development of this lymphedema. Procedures or conditions that can cause injury resulting in lymphedema are:
- Surgery. Some treatments that involve removing the lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels can lead to this disease. This occurs when the lymph nodes and residual vessels are no longer able to support the functions of the removed structures for a long time, with consequent accumulation of fluid in the affected limb.
- Radiotherapy treatments. Cancer patients undergoing therapy usually also undergo radiation. This radiation can cause damage or swelling of the lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels thus compressing the flow of lymphatic fluids.
- Cancer. Evolving tumors can block the lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels leading to the onset of lymphedema.
- Infection. Infection of the lymphatic system by parasites can cause severe blockages of the lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels. This can reduce the flow of fluids to different parts of the body resulting in a risk of lymphedema.
Method 2 of 4: Manage Lymphedema at Home
Step 1. Avoid exposing yourself to extreme temperatures
Excessive heat or cold can interrupt the flow of fluid in the lymphatic vessels and can cause increased swelling and pain. Do not apply electric warmers or ice packs to affected legs or arms. Also, avoid going to saunas and hot tubs and limit your shower to no more than 15 minutes.
If you prefer, you can use warm water
Step 2. Do not participate in strenuous, repetitive activities and do not lift heavy objects
If you strain the affected leg or arm too much, you risk interrupting lymphatic flow and worsening swelling, preventing proper lymph drainage. You should try to use limbs that are not affected by the disease.
- Limit the activities of washing the floor, scrubbing, washing dishes, raking or any other task that involves frequent use of the hands or legs.
- When you feel that your arms are tired, take a break to avoid straining them too much.
Step 3. Don't wear tight clothes and accessories
Clothing that is too tight can compress the affected extremity and cause an accumulation of fluids which increases swelling. Loose, comfortable clothing should be worn to improve circulation.
- Do not wear tops that are often very tight or any type of jewelry that constricts the neck, hands or arms.
- For the legs, you should avoid wearing tight shoes and socks.
- Remember that blood tests and blood pressure measurements must be performed on the unaffected arm. Blood tests cause lesions on the skin making it prone to infections and blood pressure measurements increase swelling due to the pressure being added.
Step 4. Protect extremities from any type of injury
Any cuts, open wounds, abrasions, or burns to the arms or limbs can cause infections. And when there is an infection, the lymphatic fluid cannot filter bacteria and viruses. Signs of infection include: swelling, pain, redness, warmth, and fever. If you experience these symptoms, go to the nearest hospital to get treatment and treatment.
- Avoid pricking your skin.
- You should always use a thimble when sewing, wear thick gloves when gardening and apply insect repellent when outdoors.
- Keep skin moist with light moisturizers to prevent it from drying out and cracking.
- Take extra precautions when shaving if you use a regular razor.
Step 5. Maintain a normal body weight
If you are overweight or obese, your risk of developing lymphedema increases. This is because you put extra pressure on areas that are already swollen and another blockage of lymphatic fluid drainage is created. Proper diet, exercise and discipline are the key to maintaining an ideal body weight.
Step 6. Raise your arms and legs
Raising the affected limbs improves circulation and drainage of lymphatic fluid, as gravity tends to pull them down. This way you then prevent further build-up.
- Raise the hand of the affected side of the body to the level of the heart about 3 times a day for 45 minutes each time. Make sure your elbow is higher than your shoulder when lying down.
- For the legs, you can lie down and put 3 pillows at the bottom of the bed, so that the feet are raised.
Step 7. Do hand and leg exercises
Exercising on the affected body part helps prevent and reduce lymphedema. Thus the swelling decreases, improving lymphatic circulation and preventing too much lymphatic fluid from flowing down to the legs.
- You can raise your hand above the heart level several times and slowly open and close it. Repeat the exercise 10 - 20 times, 3 or 4 times a day.
- For the legs, you can lie down and bend your knees, take simple walks, swim or ride a bike.
Step 8. Wrap the affected limb
You can wrap the affected limb with bandages to facilitate the return of lymphatic fluids to the trunk. The bandage can be tightened around the fingers or toes and slightly loosened as it approaches the arm or leg.
Step 9. Maintain proper hygiene
It is important to ensure proper skin and nail care. You should check your skin regularly for any changes or injuries that can cause infection. Also, you should try to use slippers or shoes as much as possible when you go outdoors.
Method 3 of 4: Managing Lymphedema with Professional Care
Step 1. Consult your doctor to find a training program
You should check with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program. He will be able to give you a list of specific exercises you can do to reduce your risk of developing lymphedema. Discuss the risks and complications in detail, so that I can provide you with a program that is in line with your physical condition.
Step 2. Get a massage
You can undergo a special massage called manual lymphatic drainage to gently move lymph fluids from blocked lymph nodes into a well-functioning knot. This maneuver can promote the correct circulation of lymphatic fluids. However, this treatment is not recommended for those suffering from skin infections, blood clots, congestive heart failure or active cancer.
Step 3. Try pneumatic compression
During this therapy you are made to wear a special cuff on the affected limb. The cuff is inflated irregularly by a pump connected to it. This action puts pressure on the limb that moves lymphatic fluids away from the affected area, thus reducing inflammation.
Method 4 of 4: Block Early Symptoms
Step 1. Look for swelling or a feeling of heaviness in the affected limb
You may notice inflammation of the affected area during the onset of lymphedema. It can involve parts of the arm or leg and sometimes affects the entire limb, including the fingers. This causes a feeling of heaviness in the affected areas due to the continuous retention of fluids.
The inflammation can be mild or even extreme
Step 2. Check if the limb activity is limited
A limited range of motion can be caused by the squeezing sensation of the affected limb. You may no longer be able to perform normal movements in the affected area due to the extreme swelling. This type of movement restriction may be indicative of the onset of lymphedema.
Step 3. Know the source of arm or leg pain
If you experience unexplained pain in a limb, it could be lymphedema. Discomfort can be caused by lymphatic fluid building up in the affected part of the body.
Step 4. Be aware that you may suffer from recurrent infections in the affected limb
Excess fluid in a certain area can damage or injure surrounding tissue and lead to multiple episodes of infection. If you notice that you often have infections in the same area of your body, it could be a developing lymphedema. The accumulating fluid provides a breeding ground for bacterial proliferation.
Step 5. Notice if the skin hardens
Fluid retention can cause thickening of the skin. This could also be a sign of lymphedema, so pay attention.
Step 6. Get tested to rule out other medical conditions
Swelling can be caused by a variety of problems, such as a blood clot or an infection that doesn't involve the lymph nodes. This is why you should get examined thoroughly to rule out other causes that can cause swelling. Various imaging techniques can be performed, such as:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This exam allows to generate high resolution images through the use of magnetic fields and radio waves. This gives a clear picture of the tissues of the arm or leg.
- Computed Tomography (CT). This is an X-ray technique that forms a complete, sectional view of the lymphatic structure. You can see the spots in the lymphatic system that show the blockage.
- Doppler ultrasonography. This test aims to identify barriers in the normal flow of fluid in the lymphatic system through high-frequency sound waves.
- Radionuclide Imaging Exam (Lymphoscintigraphy). A radioactive dye is injected into the system. A special machine then analyzes the images and highlights areas that suggest blockage of lymphatic fluids.
