lymphedema
Lymphedema is a condition in which there is swelling of the limb Sometimes, the swelling is bilateral
Lymphedema most often develops during surgery for cancer, as the lymph nodes are damaged or removed. As a result, accumulation of lymph develops in the lymphatic system, which is also part of the immune system Stopping lymph drainage causes swelling
Lymphedema cannot be cured, but the condition can be alleviated with early diagnosis and care of the limb.
The lymphatic system is essential for the health of the body A protein-rich fluid circulates through the system, collecting bacteria, viruses, and animal products from throughout the body. Through the lymphatic system, this fluid (lymph) moves to the lymph nodes The fluid is filtered by lymphocytes (cells that fight infection) and excreted from the body
Lymphedema develops when the lymphatic vessels fail to carry fluid, mainly from the extremities. Lymphedema can be primary or secondary This means that the primary lymphedema develops independently, while the secondary type is caused by another disease or condition Secondary lymphedema is much more common
Causes of secondary lymphedema Any condition that affects lymph nodes or blood vessels can cause lymphedema Examples are:
- Surgical intervention Lymphedema develops when lymph nodes and vessels are cut or damaged, for example during breast cancer surgery. Lymph nodes may also be damaged during surgery on the blood vessels of the limbs
- Radiation therapy before cancer Radiation therapy causes scarring and inflammation of the lymph nodes and vessels
- Cancer If cancer cells block the lymphatic vessels, lymphedema forms For example, if a tumor grows close to a lymph node and is quite large, it will block the flow of lymph to nearby nodes and vessels.
- Infection Parasitic infection of the lymph nodes causes the lymph flow to stop Lymphedema due to infection is common in tropical and subtropical regions and developing countries
Causes of primary lymphedema Primary lymphedema is a rare, hereditary disease associated with the development of lymphatic vessels. Specific diseases are:
- Milroy's disease (congenital lymphedema) This disease begins in infancy and causes abnormal development of the lymph nodes
- Meiji disease This disease causes lymphedema at menopause or during pregnancy, although it can appear later, up to the age of 35
- Later lymphedema (Lymphedema tarda) is rare and starts above 35 years
Signs and symptoms of lymphedema occur in the affected limb These are:
- Swelling in a part of the limb or the whole limb, including the fingers
- Feeling of heaviness, tightness
- Limited movement
- Pain or discomfort
- Recurrent infections
- Thickening of the skin and Lymphedema is common during cancer treatment and sometimes develops months or years after surgery
When to See a Doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice swelling in a limb
