6 Things To Know About Lymphedema - Nortonschool

1. 6 Things to Know about Lymphedema Lymphedema is the swelling in the legs or arms caused by damage to the lymph nodes or their removal. In online lymphedema courses, you will learn that a blockage in the lymphatic system prevents the normal drainage of lymph fluid, resulting in a buildup that causes the swelling. Medical science has yet to find a cure for lymphedema, but early diagnosis and thorough care and management can help. Recognizing and identifying the condition is critical to providing prompt and timely diagnosis and treatment, such as compression therapy for lymphedema. Here are some of the things you should know. 1. Signs and symptoms An affected arm or leg may swell all over or in some parts, including the toes and fingers. It may experience a feeling of tightness and heaviness, with a restricted range of motion and discomfort or aching. Infections may reoccur and the skin may harden and thicken (fibrosis). Lymphedema-related swelling can be mild and hardly noticeable, but it can become extreme that the limb becomes challenging to use. 2. It can be primary or secondary Primary lymphedema means it occurs on its own. It’s a rare, inherited condition that prevents the lymph vessels from developing normally. Secondary lymphedema, the most common, is caused by another condition or disease that damages the lymph vessels or nodes, such as cancer, surgery, infection, or radiation treatment. 3. Therapy and treatment options Lymphedema treatment aims to reduce swelling. Online lymphedema courses cover complete decongestive therapy (CDT), comprehensive management that involves manual lymphatic drainage, exercises, skin care, and compression. Compression therapy for lymphedema is often recommended, particularly by wrapping the affected limb, pneumatic compression, or wearing compression garments. Certified lymphedema therapists may also recommend light exercises and massage, which help with manual lymph drainage. 4. How is lymphedema diagnosed?

2. A doctor may diagnose lymphedema by observing the signs and symptoms that may occur if you’re at risk, like after cancer surgery or radiation treatment. If there are no visible signs, a doctor may order imaging tests such as an MRI scan, ultrasound, lymphoscintigraphy, or a CT scan. 5. Why lymphedema occurs in cancer patients Surgery to treat breast cancer involves lymph node removal from under the arm. Radiation therapy also damages the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes. Over time, lymph fluid accumulates as it cannot flow properly, resulting in swelling. 6. Complications and risks Lymph nodes filter out toxins and bacteria to prevent them from entering your bloodstream. If they’re compromised or removed, you’ll be at risk of further complications, such as infections, whether you have lymphedema or not. Even small scrapes and cuts can become infected and result in serious bacterial infections such as cellulitis. Tissue and skin infections linked to lymphedema require prompt and timely treatment with antibiotics to prevent sepsis. Learn more about lymphedema from professionals at Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. We offer online lymphedema courses, including an introductory course for professionals looking for clear and concise information on current treatment methods. Introduction to Lymphedema Therapy also covers the management of the condition through training in compression therapy for lymphedema. Completing this course makes you qualified to apply the regular tuition to any future full CDT certification course at Norton School.