Primary Lymphedema can occur on its’ own, or can be caused by another condition or disease, which is considered Secondary Lymphedema
At Kinship Comfort Brands, many of our customers suffer from Lymphedema. But what is Lymphedema? Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymph fluid in the soft tissues, most often in the arms or legs. It can also affect the chest wall, abdomen, genitals, or neck. Primary Lymphedema can occur on its’ own, or can be caused by another condition or disease, which is considered Secondary Lymphedema. Unfortunately, it can’t be cured, but it can be managed.
- Primary Lymphedema can occur on its’ own. Any type of problem that blocks the drainage of lymph fluid can cause lymphedema.
- Secondary Lymphedema is a lot more common. Most often, it is caused by Cancer and Cancer treatment, or from Parasites.
What are the common signs and symptoms of Lymphedema?
- Swelling in the arms or legs, including fingers and toes
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Discomfort or Aching
- Restricted Range of Motion
- Recurring infections
- Hardening and Thickening of the skin
Restricted Range of Motion can be a Symptom
How can we manage the symptoms of Lymphedema?
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for lymphedema. Its’ treatment focuses on reducing the swelling and preventing complications. But managing it properly can make a big difference to being able to get back to your regular activities!
- Prescription medicines- Since Lymphedema can increase the risk of skin infections (cellulitis), doctors may prescribe antibiotics to keep on hand so they can be taken immediately once symptoms appear.
- Exercises that can help move the excess fluid out of the swollen limb, created
by gentle contraction of the muscles in the arm or leg - Manual lymph drainage can be done by trained Therapists, using very light pressure to move the trapped fluid in the swollen limb toward an area with working lymph vessels. Manual Lymph Drainage should be avoided if someone have blood clots, a skin infection or active cancer in the affected limb.
- Compression bandages: Wrapping the affected limb with low-stretch bandages encourages lymph fluid to flow back toward the heart.
Kinship Comfort Brands’ Graduated Compression Sleeves are designed specifically for a specific body part that may be affected by Lymphedema
- Compression Sleeves, such as Kinship Comfort Brands’ graduated compression sleeves. These are designed specifically for a specific body part that may be affected by Lymphedema. The graduated compression gently applies even pressure to the foot, ankle, and legs to encourage better blood circulation, reduce pain and prevent blood clots from forming. The continuous and gentle pressure that’s applied helps to prevent blood from pooling in the feet and legs, as it helps to direct the blood back up to the heart. Compression sleeves also reduce excess fluid from the capillaries, which helps to reduce swelling and absorb tissue fluid.
- Sequential pneumatic compression. A pump that intermittently inflates a sleeve worn over the affected arm or leg, putting pressure on the limb and moving lymph fluid away from the fingers or toes.
- Surgery can be considered for patients that have had infections, tumors, carpal tunnel syndrome or herniated discs in back or neck that have caused compression-related neuropathy.
If you’d like more information on Lymphedema, please check out the following articles:
National Cancer Institute: General Information about Lymphedema
