Category: Reflections
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For the past week or so, I’ve been experiencing almost constant stomach pains and a burning feeling in my chest.… Read more.
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A few days ago, this popped up on my Twitter feed: (For those of you who may not know, “cankles”… Read more.
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Yesterday afternoon my girlfriend and I got massages. I had never had one before, so the experience was a new… Read more.
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It’s been raining for what feels like days, and I’m starting to get a little bored of it. However, I… Read more.
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Hey, lymphies! Well, it’s that time of year again – back to school, that is. Today is my first day… Read more.
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We had some tremors here in Baltimore due to a 5.9 earthquake in Virginia today. The tremors were felt up… Read more.
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“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” -Jim Rohn I have thought about this… Read more.
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I got my new stockings today! They fit great, and after a summer of no compression, it feels good… Read more.
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Today was sort of a bad one for a couple of reasons. First of all, I had work, which 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.