Understanding Arm Lymphedema: Basics, causes, and symptoms.
Introduction
Causes:
Secondary Lymphedema
Most cases of lymphedema are secondary, meaning the lymphatic system has been damaged, causing a disruption or blockage in the movement of lymphatic fluid.
Common causes include:
Surgery: Lymphedema can develop after surgery, particularly in women who have had multiple lymph nodes removed during breast cancer treatment.
Infection: Infections of the lymphatic system, such as filariasis in tropical regions, can also lead to lymphedema.
Cancer: Lymphoma or metastasized cancers can obstruct lymphatic vessels, contributing to lymphedema.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy for cancer can result in scar tissue formation, which can further obstruct lymphatic vessels.
Primary Lymphedema
Congenital Lymphedema: Present at birth, this type more commonly affects females, typically causing swelling in both legs and primarily impacting the lower limbs.
Lymphedema Praecox: This form appears after birth but before the age of 36, often during early adolescence. It is the most common form of primary lymphedema.
Lymphedema Tarda: The rarest form, it affects individuals 36 years of age or older.
These types are likely connected to the improper formation of lymphatic vessels before birth, with the timing of symptoms indicating when these vessels begin causing swelling in the arms or legs.
Symptoms of Lymphedema
Lymphedema causes swelling, often accompanied by feelings of heaviness, tightness, or fullness, typically in one arm or leg. In most cases, only one limb is affected. Swelling in the leg usually starts at the foot and may progress upwards, impacting the ankle, calf, and knee as it worsens.
Other symptoms may include:
– A constant, mild pain in the affected area.
– A feeling of constriction in the skin.
– Difficulty moving the affected limb or flexing a joint due to swelling and tight skin.
– Clothing, shoes, rings, or watches suddenly feeling too tight.
Lymphedema can increase the risk of skin infections, with signs including fever, pain, warmth, and redness. In chronic (long-term) cases, the skin in the affected area may become thickened and hard.
Preventing Lymphedema
After surgery for breast or prostate cancer, your healthcare provider or physical therapist might recommend specific exercises once you have fully recovered. Engaging in muscle use can help promote lymphatic fluid flow through small channels.
To reduce the risk of developing lymphedema after breast surgery, avoid injections, intravenous (IV) lines, or blood draws in the arm on the surgical side. Seek immediate treatment if you suspect a skin infection on the surgical side.
Additional measures to lower the risk of secondary lymphedema include:
– Avoid lifting heavy objects with the affected arm.
– Elevate the affected arm or leg(s).
– Avoid applying heat or extreme cold to the affected limb.
– Stay away from items that might squeeze, such as blood pressure cuffs or tight clothing.
– Wear compression arm sleeves or stockings
– Practice manual lymphatic drainage as advised by a trained therapist.
Conclusion:
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