Tag: research
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A summary of lymphedema and lymphatic research news from April 3 – 9, 2017. Read more.
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Life with a rare disease is one often fraught with a lack of answers — but it’s also one of… Read more.
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This recent study not only sheds some light on how lymphedema develops, but also carries the potential to inform future… 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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Lymphedema awareness is going Hollywood! Read more.
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Jim Miller has suffered from lymphedema for the past forty-six years and has been a very encouraging and inspiring voice on… 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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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.