Tag: lymphedema treatment
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This book is a must-read for lymphies and those who seek to better understand lymphedema and its treatment. Read more.
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I try out the Lounge Doctor Leg Rest for scientific elevation — and serious comfort. Read more.
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Barbara desires to help fellow lymphedema patients by participating in the ULTRA study. Read more.
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A conversation with Dr. Joanne Quan, Chief Medical Officer at Eiger BioPharmaceuticals, about the ubenimex trial, the Stanford studies, and… Read more.
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As lymphedema patients, it’s common for many of us to feel left behind by the medical community: we’ve waited years… Read more.
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This summer has been a big one for lymphedema and lymphatic research news! Back in June we talked about the… Read more.
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Stanford engineers and doctors worked alongside scientists from Fibralign to test a technique dubbed “BioBridge” as a way to essentially… Read more.
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One of the first things we learn when diagnosed with lymphedema is that there’s no cure. There are, however, a… Read more.
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I went into my wrapping treatment thinking my leg would magically shrink and look “normal,” but that’s not what happened… 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.