Author: Alexa Ercolano
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I depended on my left leg to allow myself to feel like I was somewhat normal, that I wasn’t all… Read more.
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I just got home from my first ten hour shift at work, and God, I am beat. Both of my… Read more.
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Today I worked eight hours at the pie shop, and my legs are swollen as anything. If you can’t tell,… Read more.
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Hello, Lymphies! It’s been a while since I’ve been able to sit down and write a good post for you… Read more.
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A beautiful song with a beautiful message about realizing what’s important in your life and what isn’t. Now I look… Read more.
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Summer’s here! This is a lot of people’s favorite season for a reason, although the increased heat can be difficult… Read more.
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Hey, everyone. I am so sorry for the lack of updates lately – we have no internet access in my… Read more.
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Behold what lights up your eyes – desire. Though fate may have struck off your life, defy it tonight, defy… Read more.
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In our daily lives, we lymphies need to make a lot of accommodations for our lymphedema. One such accommodation is… Read more.
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F.A.Q.s
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid, usually in an arm or leg, when the lymphatic system can’t drain properly. It’s a chronic condition, but with the right care, it can be managed well.
What causes lymphedema?
It can be primary (something you’re born with, due to how your lymph vessels developed) or secondary (caused by something else, like surgery involving lymph node removal, radiation, infection, or trauma).
Is there a cure for lymphedema?
There’s currently no cure, but you can help ease symptoms through compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, exercise, and skin care. Some patients may also be candidates for surgical options.
How do I know if I have lymphedema, or if it’s something else?
The telltale sign is persistent swelling in a limb (or another area) that doesn’t go away with rest or elevation. You may have a feeling of heaviness, tightness, or “fullness” in the affected area, as well as hardening or thickening of the skin.
Lymphedema can sometimes develop slowly, even months or years after surgery or cancer treatment, so any new or unexplained swelling is worth mentioning to your doctor.