Tag: health
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It’s June, lymphies! Can you believe it? This year is already halfway over; it’s amazing how quickly the months pass.… Read more.
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The following is a guest post from Toronto Physiotherapy: As a Certified Decongestive Therapist trained in manual lymphatic drainage, and… Read more.
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When I was in treatment for my eating disorder, the doctors warned me that I may experience edema as a… Read more.
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Some good news for breast cancer patients with secondary lymphedema: On March 6th – Lymphedema Awareness Day – researchers presented… Read more.
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How many times have you wanted to hear those words? I can’t even begin to count how often I have wished… Read more.
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Smoking can have a huge affect on our health, including our lymphedema. 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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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.