Tag: LE&RN
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For this year’s World Lymphedema Day, I spoke with Dr. Gousopoulos about the globalization of the lymphedema community, the importance… Read more.
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Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge to raise funds and awareness for lymphatic diseases. Read more.
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Finding a lymphedema therapist can be a difficult and sometimes daunting process — here are some places to help you… Read more.
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A huge victory for the lymphedema community! Read more.
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World Lymphedema Day is just a few days away, and there have already been some major things happening for lymphedema… Read more.
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With your support, we can get this recognized on a global level and bring much-needed attention to the fight against… Read more.
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Social media holds the potential to connect and empower people, but it can just as easily tear down and dehumanize… Read more.
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The focus of the lymphedema narrative is often on female patients, but lymphie men are out there! Read more.
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Today is a day for us to join together and use our voices not only to spread awareness about lymphedema,… 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.