Lymphoedema: Treatment, Procedure, Cost and Side Effects

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition where a superfluous quantity of fluids accumulate inside the tissues giving rise to inflammation or swelling. The lymphatic system is contained within the circulatory system. It is extremely important for the proper functioning of the immune system. When there is a blockage of the circulatory system lymphoedema can be caused. The condition of lymphoedema can strike either the arm or the leg, or both at the same time. In certain cases there can also be swelling inside the head or in the chest or genital region. It is practical to state right at the start that lymphoedema cannot be completely cured but it can be kept under control with treatment and medications.

The lymphatic system has mainly three roles; firstly, it takes the responsibility to drain out the extra fluid inside the tissues which in turn helps to balance the fluid inside the blood as opposed the tissues which is known as fluid homeostasis. Secondly, the lymphatic system boosts immunity by increasing the capability of the body defence system to fight off infections and bacteria. Thirdly, the lymphatic system absorbs the fats such as lipid nutrients and carries them into the blood stream from the intestine region.

Some experts are of the belief that genetic mutation is responsible for the causation of primary lymphoedema. Infections and diseases that involve a certain amount of inflammation give rise to secondary lymphoedema. Conditions such as lymphangitis and skin problems such as infections are sometimes caused by lymphoedema. The chances of lymphoedema can be reduced by proper skin protection.

The common signs and symptoms of lymphoedema include swelling, a sensation of heaviness or tightness in the limbs, restricted movements of the limbs, tingling sensation of the limbs, fatigue, recurrent skin infections and formation of blisters.

The first step of treatment involves getting yourself checked by your doctor wherein he will try to understand the possible reasons for lymphoedema. If the patient recently underwent treatment involving the lymph nodes or underwent a cancer operation then he or she stands at a high risk of developing lymphoedema. If a reason cannot be found for the occurrence of the lymphoedema then the concerned healthcare provider may ask you to undergo certain imaging tests such as Doppler ultrasound scan, CT scan or MRI scan. A lymphoscintigraphy test may also be conducted which basically involves introducing a scanner that moves through the lymphatic system and picks up on any existing blockages.

The treatment to control lymphoedema involves a Complex Decongestive Therapy or CDT for short. The method involves intensive therapy that goes on daily, teaching the patients certain treatment processes. Next comes the maintenance phase where the patient becomes trained enough to take care of own their own selves. There are basically four parts of CDT treatment which are skincare, remedial exercises, MLLB (multilayer lymphoedema bandaging) and MLD (manual lymphatic drainage).

Remedial exercises involve light physical movements that will help to stimulate the movement of the excess fluid out through the limbs. Proper skin maintenance prevents the chances of skin diseases. In the MLD technique the therapist will make use of certain massage routines that will aid in the process of transferring the fluid into the lymph nodes. The therapist will also train the patient these techniques so that he or she can regularly do them during the maintenance phase. The MLLB technique involves a process where the muscles move the excess fluid out through the system (lymphatic system).

All those patients who are already suffering from lymphoedema are eligible for the treatment and therapy process. Also, patients who have recently undergone a cancer surgery and stand the risk of developing lymphoedema are eligible.

Lymphoedema is not completely curable but can be controlled with the help of therapy. But when lymphoedema is left untreated it can cause side effects such as swelling and weakness of your arms and legs, skin rash and itchiness, hardening of the skin and tightness of the skin.

There is no permanent cure for lymphoedema. By undergoing therapy it can be controlled. Certain ways to keep your lymphoedema under control is by taking ample care of your skin, doing exercise and manually draining the lymph fluids.

In order to avoid the occurrence of lymphoedema you may be asked to follow certain guidelines. These are; avoiding steam rooms, hot showers and saunas, avoid wearing tight clothes, avoid moving around barefoot, avoid wearing jewellery that cling tightly around the skin, avoid keeping long nails, moisturize your skin daily and ensure to wear hand gloves when gardening.

There is no recovery time as there is no permanent cure for lymphoedema. With proper care and therapy it can be kept under check.

Certain alternatives of lymphoedema treatment involve undertaking certain home remedies such as detoxification, increasing circulation, making certain changes in your diet. According to some people, a pack made out of cabbage leaves can help in treating lymphoedema.