Lower Extremity Lymphedema In Breast Cancer Patients

Lymphatic system disorders or complications are common in many different patients, not the least of which are the elderly or those who are suffering or have suffered from several different types of cancer. The most common disorder of the lymph system is lymphedema which is a condition where the lymph fluid builds up in the interstitial cellular space.

Lymphedema and Breast Cancer: What Every Woman With Breast Cancer Should Know

Lymphedema is a complication that may occur after a breast cancer surgery. Some patients are more prone to getting lymphedema than others due to the specifics of their cancer treatment.

After performing a breast cancer surgery, the doctor will remove at least one lymph node from the armpit area. The node will be examined to find out whether the cancer has spread. On occasions, surgeons may decide to remove more than one lymph node.

The removal of lymph nodes from the armpit area will interfere with the proper flow of lymph. As a result, a swelling in the chest, hand, fingers, shoulder or armpit area may occur. The swelling is known as lymphedema after breast cancer treatment.

In the beginning, the lymphedema symptoms will be relatively subtle. Before patients notice a visible swelling, they may feel tingling or a numbing sensation in the arm or fingers. Increased warmth or discomfort in the chest, breast, arm or hand area may also indicate lymphedema.

Who is at Risk of Developing Lymphedema?

Chronic Lymphedema: Methods for Compensating for the Lymph System's Inabilities

Chronic Lymphedema is a condition whereby the lymph system is not able to adequately drain the fluid that is amassing in the body. It can take place when there are lymph tumors or when there are surgical interventions or for many other reasons. The inability of the body to drain the fluid can cause the affected limbs to become very fluid filled. In some cases they may even drain through the skin. Patients may see their limbs swell to two or three times the size of the normal limb and they may experience some very vast discomfort when this takes place.

Lympha Press – Home Solution for Lymphedema

For millions of people who suffer from lymphedema, a Lympha Press Pump can be the optimal home solution. Lymphedema is the term used when the lymphatic system does not function properly.
Fluid that would normally drain through the lymph vessels builds up and this in turn causes swelling in the affected area. This generally occurs in the arms or legs, but it can affect other areas of the body.

Not only does the excess fluid cause swelling, but it is very painful and can limit movement. There are several causes from complications associated with cancer surgery to infection.
Although people may experience temporary lymphedema, the condition can be chronic and this is when a lympha press can be quite beneficial.

What are the Advantages of Lympha Press?

How To Get Rid Of Lymphedema Symptoms

If you are wondering how to get rid of lymphedema, one of the first things you will find out about this disorder is there is no cure. However, managing lymphedema is possible. Understanding the condition is key to learning how to handle the pain and swelling caused by lymphedema. Many people experience this disorder and unless it is managed properly, it will get worse.

What causes Lymphedema?

Lymphedema can affect the arms or legs and it causes swelling, which is painful and can result in limited movement. The lymphatic system does not function correctly causing fluids to gather in the tissues. The lymphatic system is critical to the circulatory system. When it becomes blocked and does not carry the excess fluids to the lymph nodes for removal from the body, lymphedema occurs.

This swelling can cause a great deal of pain in the limb or limbs that are affected. In addition, when the lymphatic system is not working correctly and fluid accumulates, people are more prone to infections such as cellulitis. This is because the lymphatic system cannot carry lymphocytes or cells that fight infection to the area of the body that is swollen. Another one of the major functions of the lymphatic system is to rid the body of wastes such as viruses and bacteria.

Lymphedema Pumps

Understanding How To Treat Lymphedema

As a disorder that affects more than 3 million Americans, lymphedema can be a debilitating and life-altering disease. Understanding how to treat lymphedema is key to managing this problem because at the present, there is not a cure. However, there are ways to control the symptoms and return to a normal life.

The number one breakthrough in this area is a lymphedema pump. The pump can move the excess fluid out of the limb (generally the legs or arms) that is affected, thus reducing swelling. This allows those who suffer from the disorder to regain use of the limb and resume normal activities.

How does the pump help?

Compression Sleeves for Lymphedema Reduce Fluid Build-Up

Lymphedema is often developed by women who have had treatment for breast cancer. However, some people experience lymphedema and the cause is not known. It is the build-up of fluid – generally in an arm or leg – and is usually not a temporary condition. Once it develops, it is permanent.

A Lymphedema Pump is Beneficial for Many