DefinitionBy Mayo Clinic staff
Lymphedema refers to swelling that generally occurs in one of your arms or legs. Although lymphedema tends to affect just one arm or leg, sometimes both arms or both legs may be swollen.
Lymphedema is caused by a blockage in your lymphatic system, an important part of your immune and circulatory systems. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and as the fluid builds up, the swelling continues. Lymphedema is most commonly caused by the removal of or damage to your lymph nodes as a part of cancer treatment.
There's no cure for lymphedema, but it can be controlled. Controlling lymphedema involves diligent care of your affected limb.
SymptomsBy Mayo Clinic staff
Lymphedema symptoms include:
Swelling of part of your arm or leg or your entire arm or leg, including your fingers or toes
A feeling of heaviness or tightness in your arm or leg
Restricted range of motion in your arm or leg
Aching or discomfort in your arm or leg
Recurring infections in your affected limb
Hardening and thickening of the skin on your arm or leg
The swelling caused by lymphedema ranges from mild, hardly noticeable changes in the size of your arm or leg to extreme swelling that can make it impossible to use the affected limb. If your lymphedema is caused by cancer treatment, you may not notice any swelling until months or years after treatment.
Terry is AMAZING!! He helps the lymph fluid that builds up in my arms to release by massaging it every day. So patient, loving and he has great hands. The first week there was about a liter of fluid that was lost in my arm. I am so blessed to have a husband who is so kind and concerned about his wife. My sleeves will be here in about a week. Here is a picture of what they will look like. I will have one for each arm and both hands. Fashionable huh!!
