While lymphedema is a life-long journey, we take special time this month to recognize the impact that lymphedema can have on one’s life. Lymphedema is a condition in which the lymphatic system is damaged and malfunctioning and as a result the affected area can be swollen, heavy and harder to move. Lymphedema can cause clothes to no longer fit, limit your ability to participate in activities you enjoy, and increase your risk for infection.
We hear most about secondary lymphedema, which occurs when there is damage to the lymphatic system such as cancer treatment with surgery or radiation, recurrent surgeries or a physical trauma. Primary lymphedema is a condition where the lymphatic system did not properly develop, and children or adults can spontaneously develop this chronic swelling. The true rates of occurrence for both types of lymphedema are unknown because it is so misunderstood and therefore under-diagnosed.
In the United States, there are more people living with lymphedema than ALS, MS, and Parkinson’s Disease combined. This surprising fact highlights the importance for increasing lymphedema awareness and what to do about it. I encourage you to seek out information by going to educational talks at the Cancer Support Community of Southwest Colorado, visiting the National Lymphedema Network and Klose Training websites to learn more. Lymphedema is chronic and progressive, if left untreated, but it is treatable and manageable with therapy. I encourage you to seek out a certified lymphedema therapist who can provide the gold standard of treatment, called complete decongestive therapy. During treatment an occupational or physical therapist will assess the condition and stage of disease, provide a special massage to help move the lymphatic fluid out of the affected area, apply compression bandaging to help shrink the limb and then transition you into a long-term management plan so that you can live the most normal life possible. Early detection is always best but it is never too late to treat lymphedema!
Should you have concerns about chronic swelling or lymphedema, I am a new resource in town and I would be very happy to share information and help facilitate treatment at any point along the journey.
