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This site is dedicated to the support and treatment of lymphedema. Here you will find information and links to treatment, support groups, research, etc.
WHAT IS LYMPHEDEMA?

Lymphedema is a chronic swelling, due to inadequate lymph drainage. Swelling can be present anywhere on the body, but is most commonly seen in an arm or a leg.

You are at risk for developing lymphedema if you have had lymph nodes removed and/or radiation therapy. This risk is usually restricted to the quadrant(s) from which the lymph nodes were removed and/or the radiation given.
TYPES OF LYMPHEDEMA:

There are two types of lymphedema: primary and secondary.

Primary lymphedema, also known as congenital lymphedema, can be present at birth or develop at the onset of puberty or in adulthood, all from a variety of causes. This is a less common type of lymphedema.

Secondary lymphedema, also known as acquired lymphedema, is the more common type. Most often, secondary lymphedema occurs following surgery, especially after the removal of one or more lymph nodes. Among the surgeries that require the removal of lymph nodes are those for breast, gynecological, head and neck, prostate, testicular, bladder and colon cancer, and melanoma. Lymphedema can develop immediately after surgery or months to years following cancer treatment. Secondary lymphedema can also develop following scarring from infection or radiation therapy, or it may result from traumatic injury to a part of the lymphatic system.
TREATMENTS

There is no cure for lymphedema, but early intervention and management techniques allow most patients to lead full, normal lives. Because lymphedema is a chronic condition, learning lifelong management techniques is essential.

� Manual lymph treatment to drain fluid and soften tissue in an affected area by specialized massage techniques.

� Multi-layer compression bandaging
to reduce the amount of lymph in a swollen limb

� Compression garments to help minimize swelling throughout one's daily activities

� Therapeutic exercise
to improve lymph drainage through a program of flexibility, strength-training, and aerobic activities

Compression pumping to bring down swelling (in selected cases) through the use of state-of-the-art pneumatic pumps

� Patient education to allow patients to take control of their own lives. In addition to learning how to manage lymphedema at home, patients may receive guidance on specific questions from nutritionists, social workers, support groups, or other health professionals.

All patients benefit from follow-up treatment, with re-evaluations at recommended intervals to determine whether the management plan needs to be modified.
Lymphedema Pictures--Click Here
The American Lymphedema Institute has compiled these guidelines to empower you to protect yourself. By following them you may be able to protect yourself from
developing lymphedema, or perhaps postpone its onset. If you have lymphedema, adhering to these guidelines may help prevent further deterioration.
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