Description

Lymphedema Treatment

The lymph fluid, which normally forms at the end of the
cellular activities of our body, is collected by lymph vessels within the
tissues. The lymph fluid filtered from the lymph nodes enters the
bloodstream.

If this supposed circulation is interrupted due to discomfort
in the lymph nodes or lymph tracts due to various reasons, lymph fluid begins
to accumulate in the tissue. This is called “LYMPHEDEM”.

Situations of lymphedem

Damage to lymph nodes due to surgery or radiotherapy after
breast cancer in women may cause lymphedema in the arm. Lymphedema may
develop in the legs due to congenital lymph nodes or insufficiency in the lymph
ducts. This edema can reach advanced dimensions (Elephantiasis-Elephant
Disease). Lymphedema mostly occurs in older ages, but can also be seen
from birth.

Treatment of lymphedema

Today, lymphedema can be treated. It is not possible to
overcome the structural disorder of the lymphatic system, which has been congenital
or acquired. However, it is possible to eliminate lymphedema and prevent
its recurrence. We can collect this treatment under the headings of surgical
and non-surgical treatment. Complex Physical Therapy (CPT), one of the
non-surgical treatment methods, is the most successful method in the treatment
of lymphedema. The contents of this treatment are as follows;

Keeping the edematous skin clean and moist

Special lymph drainage to the whole body by hand

Device lymph drainage

Wrapping the swollen arm or leg with a special bandage system after drainage

Compressed clothing according to the dimensions at the end of the therapy cycle

Providing the continuation of the treatment by the massage,
exercise, bandaging and wearing pressure clothing given to the patient.

Duration of treatment can vary from 2 to 8 weeks depending on
the severity of the disease. Some points that lymphedema patients should
pay attention to are listed below:

You can pay attention to some points to protect your skin. Always
use gloves when dealing with the dishes, laundry or gardening.

In the slightest scratch or cut, immediately clean the wound
and protect your skin with a germ breaker. For redness and swelling,
consult your doctor immediately.

Protect your swollen arm or leg from sun and sunburn.

Dry your arms and legs well, especially do not leave the
fingers between the fingers. Try to prevent the development of a fungal
infection.

Use nail scissors to cut your nails. Have a pair of scissors of your own.

Do not lie on your arm with lymphedema.

Do not have blood pressure measured or blood drawn from your swollen arm (do not have an injection.

Always wear lymphedema stockings to maintain well-being after treatment.

Do not overweight and avoid sweating.

Stay away from hot environments, do not go to hot springs, do not stay in the sun for a long time.

If you can, it will be very useful to do swimming.