Lymphedema Diagram

What is Lymphedema:

Lymphedema is the swelling of an area of the body, usually an arm or leg, resulting from an accumulation of Lymph Fluid. 

Lymph, the transparent fluid that is collected from body tissues is normally removed via the lymphatic system.  Instead of the usual transport of proteins, fat, water, and cells from the lymph vessels into the circulatory system where they can be utilized or removed, the lymph fluid accumulates and causes swelling and pain in the limb.

There are 2 types of lymphedema:

1	Primary lymphedema, which can be present at birth. .
2	Secondary lymphedema, which occurs after trauma to an area of the lymphatic system, either through injury or surgery.

Why Lymphedema is serious:

Lymphedema is serious because of the disability it causes through fever, cellulitis, neuropathy, etc. Also because of the cosmetic deformities that are difficult to hide. The pervasive lack of medical expertise in diagnosis and treatment of the condition and the tendency of clinicians to trivialize lymphedema, especially in patients who have been treated for cancer.

We can help!

Via a course of treatment provided by a certified lymphedema therapist.