Although it takes time and effort, the treatment can be used to bring lymphoedema under control. DLT is an intensive phase of therapy, during which you may receive daily treatment for several weeks to help reduce the volume of the affected body part.
This is followed by a second phase called the maintenance phase. You'll be encouraged to take over your care using simple self massage techniques, wearing compression garments, and continuing to exercise. Unlike blood circulation, the lymphatic system has no central pump, such as the heart, to move fluid to the lymph glands. Instead, it uses the massaging effect of surrounding muscles to move the fluid.
This is why exercise is important. Compression bandages or garments, such as sleeves, gloves, stockings or tights, fitted over affected limbs act as a counterforce to muscles. This stimulates more effective lymph drainage. More research is needed to say for sure which individual treatments are most effective, in what combinations, and in which situations.
In the meantime, you and your lymphedema therapist have several options to consider. Treatments such as sleeves, bandages, and pumps help lymph flow out of the arm, hand, trunk, or other body part affected by lymphedema. Others involve making lifestyle changes — such as skin protection, exercise, and losing weight — that are shown to help the lymphatic system. The degree, intensity, and length of your treatments will depend on how severe your lymphedema is.
For example, mild lymphedema with minor swelling typically requires less treatment than a later-stage lymphedema with obvious swelling and fibrosis scarring of the soft tissue.
Some women who have undergone treatment for breast cancer develop lymphedema after their treatment. There are no specific diagnostic tests for lymphedema. The doctor will complete a medical history and physical examination. The medical history may include questions regarding the following:. Past surgeries.
Problems following the surgeries. Onset of symptoms When did the swelling appear? History of edema severe swelling. Current medications. Other medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes.
Upon diagnosis, your doctor will identify which stage best characterizes your lymphedema and diagnose treatment accordingly. Depending on how the swelling has progressed, your doctor will identify the following stages:. Stage 1 : Abnormal flow in the lymphatic system. No signs or symptoms. Stage 2 : Accumulation of fluid with swelling. Swelling resolves with elevation. Pressing on the area may leave a dent. Stage 3 : Permanent swelling that does not resolve with elevation.
Pressing on the area no longer leaves a dent. Changes in the skin with scarring and thickening. There are several treatment options available for lymphedema. Treatment for lymphedema depends on the severity and extent of the condition. Prevention and controlling lymphedema play an important role with this condition since there is no cure. Decongestive treatment is commonly recommended for the first two stages of lymphedema.
Treatment options may include:. Exercise helps to restore flexibility and strength, and it improves drainage. Elsevier; Accessed May 19, Jameson JL, et al. Chronic venous disease and lymphedema. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. McGraw Hill; Ferri FF. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor Mehrara B. Clinical features and diagnosis of peripheral lymphedema. Mayo Clinic; National Cancer Institute.
Overview of the lymphatic system. Merck Manual Professional Version.
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