Author: Alexa Ercolano
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Some Things to Remember While Practicing Yoga Be gentle. Creating strain within your muscles will make it harder for the… Read more.
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Hello, lymphies! I am writing this from the train, as I’m going home visit my family for a few weeks.… Read more.
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When you feel your life ain’t worth living, you’ve got to stand up and take a look around you, then… Read more.
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This lymphie is in a good mood today because it’s my last day of classes, yayy! What does this mean… Read more.
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And all this time, ohh oh, all this time, you have had it in you – you just sometimes need… Read more.
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Today is a new day. The sun is shining over Lake Champlain, and the air is crisp and clear in… Read more.
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To make a mountain of your life is just a choice, but I never learned enough to listen to the… Read more.
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It’s finally feeling like springtime, and I couldn’t be more thrilled! The weather is warming up, school is winding down,… Read more.
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A pilot study of 10 women with post breast cancer lymphedema reported concern over the betrayal of their body, abandonment… 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.