March is Lymphedema Awareness Month, and it is a terrific reminder to shed light on this chronic condition and its impact on cancer patients. We also focus on how WeSPARK can support patients with patients with Lymphedema.
What is it?
Lymphedema, a lymphatic system condition, causes severe fluid buildup, swelling, inflammation, and pain. Up to 10 million people have Lymphedema and lymphatic diseases in the U.S., and millions more worldwide according to the Lymphatic Education & Research Network. While most anyone can develop Lymphedema for various genetic or health reasons, people undergoing cancer treatment are at a higher risk of developing it.
Signs of Lymphedema include:
- Swelling in one or more limbs, including fingers and toes
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Reduced flexibility or range of motion
- Recurring infections
- Hardening or thickening of the skin
- Discomfort or aching in the swollen area
What’s the negative news?
Lymphedema increases the risk of getting an infection in the swollen area because the good cells that prevent infection can’t reach that swollen body. Cuts and wounds may heal more slowly. There’s also an emotional impact where individuals experiencing Lymphedema feel isolated, depressed, and embarrassed about it.
How to manage it?
Lymphedema is preventable and treatable. It is treated through exercise, a compression sleeve or stocking, massage therapy, a pneumatic pump, or, in severe cases, surgery. It can be prevented in some cases by discussing with your doctor both pre and post-treatment about ways to minimize your risk.
WeSPARK offers support with individual services available to our guest, including appointments with our Nurse Navigator, who can help you prepare to talk to your doctor on ways to minimize risk. Individuals who experience Lymphedema may be able to get manual lymphatic drainage therapy with a Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist at WeSPARK, which can help.