Lymphedema is a condition that can endure for a very long period and causes swelling in the tissues of the body, most commonly in the limbs. This swelling can be quite painful in the arms and legs. Even though there is no known treatment for lymphedema, the core symptoms of the disorder, which include swelling and the accumulation of fluid, can be treated using Lymphedema therapy. These symptoms include swelling and fluid buildup.
Here are a summary listing five potential treatment options for lymphedema. This is especially important if you were diagnosed recently.
1. Realize That You Are Not The Only One Dealing With This Condition
There are hundreds of millions more people affected by lymphedema and other lymphatic diseases around the world. Lymphedema affects up to 10 million people in the United States alone. A great number of medical organizations are devoted to the mission of eradicating lymphedema and finding a therapy or cure for the ailment. You’re not alone. In addition, medical groups offer members the opportunity to network with people hailing from a range of different walks of life, provide access to a plethora of information, and provide aid and direction in a variety of forms.
2. Make An Appointment With A Lymphedema Therapist
Lymphedema therapists that specialize in the condition can instruct patients in the use of various techniques and pieces of equipment that can assist in the management of their condition and the associated swelling. Clinicians that treat lymphedema are considered to be movement experts. They improve patients’ quality of life by providing hands-on care, patient education, and recommended exercises and treatments. For an assessment, you may get in touch with one of them directly.
3. Get Some Exercise
Movement and exercise are highly important for improving your general health and helping you avoid the weight gain that can raise your risk of lymphedema. You can lower your chance of getting lymphedema following surgery or infection by working with a doctor to establish a safe and sensible exercise program. This program will help you avoid straining the injured limb and will assist you in reducing the likelihood of developing lymphedema.
4. Elevate The Swollen Arm Or Leg
Whenever you are sitting or lying down on the bed or a sofa, elevate the swollen arm or leg by propping it up on a pillow. Whenever it is possible, you should try to keep the limb higher than the level of your heart. If the problem is with one of your legs, try to avoid sitting in a position that requires you to cross your legs. Avoid remaining seated in the same position for more than half an hour at a time.
5. Speak With Your Doctor For Compression Therapy
The use of compression therapy is effective in reducing swelling, which is produced by an accumulation of lymph fluid (lymphedema). This causes pressure to be applied to the area where there is swelling. The pressure that is being applied to the tissues in the area needs to be consistent but firmly applied.
Compression can be applied in a variety of different manners. Bandaging and clothing are also included in this category. Because of the pressure, the lymph fluid that was previously contained is now able to move more freely through the lymph vessels. The compression bandage or garment also functions as an additional force that the muscles must fight against while they are working. Because of this, the fluid will be able to drain out of the area more effectively.
