Dr. Samarth Gupta

Lymphedema Is More Than Just Swelling: Why Early Treatment Can Make A Difference

Lymphedema Is More Than Just Swelling: Why Early Treatment Can Make a Difference

Many people may dismiss swelling in an arm or leg, particularly if it's not painful. But if the swelling continues or keeps coming back, it could be a sign of <span>lymphedema</span>, a condition that affects the body's lymphatic system. 

The lymphatic system is responsible for draining excess fluid from body tissues. If this system is damaged or is not functioning correctly, fluid will accumulate, and lead to swelling. There are different causes of lymphedema such as some infections, injuries, congenital disorders and cancer therapies. Women who have had breast or gynaecological cancers may be at special risk if they had their lymph nodes removed or if radiation had been used. 

Sometimes, <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/primary-vs-secondary-lymphedema-what-is-the-swelling-that-wont-go-away-signs-to-spot-early-article-151560320" data-type="tilCustomLink">lymphedema</a> develops gradually. Signs and symptoms include swelling of one arm or leg, heaviness or tightness in the arm or leg, trouble putting on rings or a watch, and decreased movement in the arm or leg. 

At times, the skin can also be tight and turn into a hard consistency over time. In certain patients, a second infection of the skin may occur. 

These symptoms should not just be attributed to "normal swelling. An early evaluation may help determine the root cause and make the condition less complicated to deal with. 

Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/full-fat-dairy-may-actually-be-healthy-not-harm-weight-or-cholesterol-study-finds-article-155477359" data-type="tilCustomLink">Full-Fat Dairy May Actually Be Healthy, Not Harm Weight or Cholesterol, Study Finds</a>

<h2>What Is The Treatment For Lymphedema? </h2>

Treatment will depend on the severity of the disease and its etiology. Treatment usually involves compression garments, special physiotherapy, gentle lymphatic massage, exercises and skin care. The techniques may be used to help decrease swelling and movement. 

Surgery may be necessary in some cases of more severe or <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/a-bump-on-your-arm-it-could-be-rare-sarcoma-cancer-article-151212120" data-type="tilCustomLink">chronic lymphedema</a>. New pathways can be created to allow the excess fluid to pass, such as in a lymphovenous bypass. For some patients, a transfer of lymph nodes or liposuction may be an option. 

Additionally, for patients who have an increased risk of developing lymphedema, doctors may also recommend preventive measures for individuals who must have some type of cancer surgery. This implies that measures should be taken to ensure protection of the lymphatic drainage before any appreciable swelling occurs. 

Also read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/nih-chief-urges-parents-to-vaccinate-children-as-measles-outbreak-breaks-35-year-record-article-155456879" data-type="tilCustomLink">NIH Chief Urges Parents To Vaccinate Children As Measles Outbreak Breaks 35 Year Record</a>

Why Maharashtra Doctors Went on Strike | CCMP vs MBBS Row Explained

If swelling isn't severe, don't wait to get help. If there is any continued or unexplained swelling, there will be a specialist available to give information about the cause of the <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/air-pollution-may-increase-the-risk-of-painful-rheumatoid-arthritis-flares-study-finds-article-155322612" data-type="tilCustomLink">swelling</a> and what treatment is appropriate. 

Patients are provided with a holistic treatment pathway for lymphedema with multiple specialists treating their patients who came together for the diagnosis, rehabilitation and surgical treatment of lymphedema. 

Treatment of lymphedema is not all about reducing swelling. The overall aim is to maintain a person's function, ease and independence in their daily activities. 

If diagnosed early, and appropriately treated and followed-up, lymphedema can be managed successfully and patients can lead their life with a growing sense of confidence and comfort.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

lymphedema-is-more-than-just-swelling-why-early-treatment-can-make-a-difference

Lymphedema

Lymphedema signs

Lymphedema symptoms

Lymphedema treatment

Lymphedema prevention

too-much-cows-milk-linked-to-severe-iron-deficiency-in-toddlers-including-three-deaths

Too Much Cow’s Milk Linked To Severe Iron Deficiency In Toddlers, Including Three Deaths

full-fat-dairy-may-actually-be-healthy-not-harm-weight-or-cholesterol-study-finds

Full-Fat Dairy May Actually Be Healthy, Not Harm Weight or Cholesterol, Study Finds

Health & Wellness

8 Sit-Up Variations to Strengthen Your Core and Build Stability

Benefits Of Ayurvedic Health Supplement Ashwagandha

9 Anti-Inflammatory Breakfast Options You Should Try

5 Foods You Should Avoid For PCOS, Says Gynecologist

Love Sitting With Your Legs Crossed? Here’s You Should Avoid It

6 Daily Foods That Are Secretly Increasing Your Calories

9 Brain Boosters You Should Do Everyday

Hip Exercises That Will Keep You Flexible As You Age

9 Leg Exercises Office Workers’ Should Do At Home

Benefits of Having Herbal Tea Every Morning

9 Daily Habits That Boost Your Brain Power

Lower-Body Exercises That Are Game-Changers

How Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Helps You

Aging Myths You Should Never Believe

Superfoods That Support Your Gut Health

What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Instant Noodles Every Day?

Health Issues Premature Babies Often Face

Exercises Office Workers Should Do For Their Heart Health

Reasons Why You Should Add Raw Turmeric To Your Diet

Benefits Of Drinking Milk At Night: Why You Should Do It

Food That Provides Vitamin B12 Naturally In Your Diet

Surprising Health Benefits Of Fenugreek Seeds

9 Superfoods You Should Eat For Your Brain Health

What Does Mental Health Support Look Like At Work?

Long Stretches You Should Do To Unwind From Your Day

Colon Cancer In Young Adults: Early Symptoms You Should Know

Health Benefits Of Eating Dry Fruits Everyday

Are You At Risk For Fried Rice Syndrome?

These Tests Reveal How Well You Are Aging

Lower-Back Exercises You Should Do After A Long-Day's Work

Children’s Diet – What Kids Need To Eat For Immunity Building

Common Diabetes Myths That Could Hurt Your Health

Love Spicy Food? Here’s How It Affects Your Health

Superfood List: Veggies And Fruits You Must Have For Immunity

Foods People With IBS Should Avoid

Exercises To Improve Digestion

Easy Work Lunches You Can Make In The Morning

Hunger Vs Craving: Difference Explained In 60 seconds

These Things Can Cause Your Heart To Age Faster

High Carb Foods That Are Actually Healthy

Many people may dismiss swelling in an arm or leg, particularly if it's not painful. But if the swelling continues or keeps coming back, it could be a sign of lymphedema, a condition that affects the body's lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for draining excess fluid from body tissues. If this system is damaged or is not functioning correctly, fluid will accumulate, and lead to swelling. There are different causes of lymphedema such as some infections, injuries, congenital disorders and cancer therapies. Women who have had breast or gynaecological cancers may be at special risk if they had their lymph nodes removed or if radiation had been used. What are the WARNING SIGNS? Sometimes, lymphedema develops gradually. Signs and symptoms include swelling of one arm or leg, heaviness or tightness in the arm or leg, trouble putting on rings or a watch, and decreased movement in the arm or leg. At times, the skin can also be tight and turn into a hard consistency over time. In certain patients, a second infection of the skin may occur. These symptoms should not just be attributed to "normal swelling. An early evaluation may help determine the root cause and make the condition less complicated to deal with. Also read: Full-Fat Dairy May Actually Be Healthy, Not Harm Weight or Cholesterol, Study FindsWhat Is The Treatment For Lymphedema? Treatment will depend on the severity of the disease and its etiology. Treatment usually involves compression garments, special physiotherapy, gentle lymphatic massage, exercises and skin care. The techniques may be used to help decrease swelling and movement. Surgery may be necessary in some cases of more severe or chronic lymphedema. New pathways can be created to allow the excess fluid to pass, such as in a lymphovenous bypass. For some patients, a transfer of lymph nodes or liposuction may be an option. Additionally, for patients who have an increased risk of developing lymphedema, doctors may also recommend preventive measures for individuals who must have some type of cancer surgery. This implies that measures should be taken to ensure protection of the lymphatic drainage before any appreciable swelling occurs. Also read: NIH Chief Urges Parents To Vaccinate Children As Measles Outbreak Breaks 35 Year RecordWhen To Go To The Doctor?       If swelling isn't severe, don't wait to get help. If there is any continued or unexplained swelling, there will be a specialist available to give information about the cause of the swelling and what treatment is appropriate. Patients are provided with a holistic treatment pathway for lymphedema with multiple specialists treating their patients who came together for the diagnosis, rehabilitation and surgical treatment of lymphedema. Treatment of lymphedema is not all about reducing swelling. The overall aim is to maintain a person's function, ease and independence in their daily activities. If diagnosed early, and appropriately treated and followed-up, lymphedema can be managed successfully and patients can lead their life with a growing sense of confidence and comfort.

lymphedema is more than just swelling: why early treatment can make a difference

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Lymphedema Is More Than Just Swelling: Why Early Treatment Can Make A Difference

AIIMS Performs Second Dual Kidney Transplant Using Organs From 70-Year-Old Donor: How It Can Expand Donor Pool?

Post-Menopausal Women Face A Higher Risk Of Fatty Liver Disease: How Falling Oestrogen Levels Impact Liver Health

Monsoon Gut Health: Addressing The Rise In Rotavirus And Viral Gastroenteritis Cases

Health Conditions A-Z

Lymphedema Is More Than Just Swelling: Why Early Treatment Can Make A Difference

Too Much Cow’s Milk Linked To Severe Iron Deficiency In Toddlers, Including Three Deaths

Full-Fat Dairy May Actually Be Healthy, Not Harm Weight or Cholesterol, Study Finds