Lymphoedema is an abnormal, long term swelling of parts or parts of the body caused by a collection of lymphatic fluid in the tissues below the skin. It occurs when there is a dysfunction in the lymphatic system.
Primary Lymphoedema
This happens when lymphatic vessels or nodes have not developed correctly before birth. It may present at birth, but can also become evident later in life.
Secondary Lymphoedema
Secondary lymphoedema happens as a result of damage or obstruction to the lymphatic system causing an inability for the lymphatic system to transport fluid. This damage can be caused by surgery, trauma, cancer or treatment of cancer or infection.
Signs and Symptoms
- Full or heavy sensation in the body part at risk.
- Pain or painful swelling.
- Tightness in the skin.
- Difficulty wearing clothes, tight jewelry.
- Longstanding swelling that causes skin changes – tissue becomes thick and hard.
The recommended treatment is best executed by a certified and knowledgeable lymphoedema therapist. Visit the ‘find a therapist section’ on the LAOSA website to find a therapist near you.
Risk Reduction Advice
- Skincare: Prevent sunburn, insect bites and look after your nails. Keep your skin well master moisturized.
- Activity lifestyle: Build up exercise intensity gradually and try to maintain a healthy weight.
- Limb construction: Avoid blood pressure being taking on at risk side. Make sure clothes and jewelry are not too tight.
- Body temperature: Extremes of temperature can overload the lymphatic system.
- Travel: speak to your therapist about wearing well fitted compression when traveling.
- Infections: redness, heat or a rash in the at risk area, may indicate infection.
- Trauma: cuts and open areas in the skin should be cleaned and well managed.
- Skin puncture: avoid medical traditional procedures that require needle punctures on the at risk area.
Contact the Lymphoedema Association of South Africa
info@laosa.co.za
www.laosa.co.za
Useful websites: