What Causes Chronic Lymphedema to Develop?

Chronic Lymphedema, a case of the affected limb's deficient lymphatic system's inability to compensate for the demand for fluid drainage, can occur after tumor progression in lymph nodes, infections in lymph vessels, limb immobility, radiation injuries, surgeries, thrombosis, or unsuccessful management of the early stages of Lymphedema. Chronic Lymphedema patients can develop severe abnormalities in their affected limbs that may swell twice, or more, their normal sizes, and create extreme discomfort as well.

Chronic Lymphedema becomes non-pitting and has lower oxygen content. Other symptoms of Chronic Lymphedema may include a greater distance between lymph vessels because of fluid accumulation and swelling, lymphatic clearance impairment, macrophage function depression, and Pruritus, an unpleasant sensation creating a desire to scratch. Risks for infections and cellulitis may also increase in patients with Chronic Lymphedema.

Chronic Lymphedema Treatments:

Manual lymph drainage to increase lymph fluid flow, Lymphedema pumps that are recommended for faster reduction of accumulated lymph fluid, and surgical procedures such as Lymphovenous Anastamosis for limited lymphatic obstructions may contribute to aiding Chronic Lymphedema treatments.

Patient Education:

Patient education about Lymphedema's etiology and management are the first part of allowing them to better understand their afflictions and help establish creative ways of dealing with the diverse manifestations caused by Lymphedema. Patient education should include keeping affected limbs elevated higher than the heart whenever possible, Lymphedema pump usage to maintain reduced Lymphedema, and the proper wear and care of compression garments.

Complete Decongestive Physical Therapy:

Complete Decongestive Physical Therapy, (see Lymphedema Straight Talk Volumn 1 / Number 17), is the Gold Standard treatment for Chronic Lymphedema. This treatment includes manual lymph drainage message techniques to redirect lymph fluid through alternative routes in the body, Lymphedema bandages worn 24 hours a day, Lymphedema compression garments, self massage, and exercises specific to Lymphedema. Patients also require life long self-managed care of the affected limb.

Previously: Complete Decongestive Physical Therapy.

Next Time: Lymph Fluid.