There is no way to tell who will develop a lymphedema and who will not, but there are steps that can be taken to help keeping a lymphedema from starting and to reduce or relieve symptoms. It’s important to remember, that the main aim of cancer treatment is to cure the cancer, not to prevent lymphedema, so some difficult choices need to be made that may put you at risk. So some risk factors are within your control and some are not. But first things first, let's talk about what a lymphedema is before we look closer on what we as an individual can do.
1. What is a lymphedema and why could a lymphedema develop months or even years after the actual cancer treatment?
Lymphedema occurs when the lymph vessels are unable to adequately drain lymph fluid. As we get older, the transporting efficiency of the lymph vessels lessens. In addition, blockages caused by damage or disruption to the lymphatic system (i.e. scarred tissue, removal of lymph nodes, tumors, reoccurring inflammations ) prevents lymph fluid from draining well and the fluid buildup will eventually lead to swelling. Excess weight or obesity also increase the risk of lymphedema.
2. How do I notice that I have a Lymphedema?
Early detection can be challenging because first symptoms are often subtle. Even before there is a visible swelling, you may often notice an unusual sensation - a sensory change such as feeling tingling or numbing in the arm or legs for a day or two, which then goes away. Or maybe the rings don't fit for a day or two, but then it goes away again. Feelings like these are an important part of the story the body is telling: Something is changing, something is different. And it’s important to act on it because at the early stage, conservative treatments show to be effective and can prevent lymphedema from becoming a persistent, limiting condition.
Additional early symptoms to look for include:
· achiness, tingling, discomfort, or increased warmth in the hand, arm, chest, breast, or underarm
· feelings of fullness or heaviness in the hand, arm, chest, breast, or underarm
· Restricted range of motion, tightness or decreased flexibility in nearby joints, such as the shoulder, hand, or wrist
· veins or tendons in the hand are harder to see, and/or the knuckles look less pronounced, or once-wrinkled skin looks younger or smoother
· bra feels tighter, does not fit the same, or leaves an indentation on the skin
3. Lymphedama! Now what??
Lymphedema is a symptom that may occur after cancer surgery and cannot be cured, but it can be managed. In general, treatments such as sleeves, bandages, and pumps help lymph flow out of the arm, hand, trunk, or other body part affected by lymphedema. Others involve making some lifestyle changes — such as skin protection, exercise, and losing weight — that are shown to help the lymphatic system.
Regular Manual Lymphatic Drainange and Complex Decongestive Therapy by a certified therapist may be necessary to control the lymphedema, however there is a lot you can do yourself to keep the swelling at bay.
4. So what can I do myself to reduce the risk of developing lymphedema ? Or reduce an already existing swelling?
Self-massage
The lymphatic self-massage assists the lymphatic system to transport the lymphatic fluid. This is beneficial not only when an edema is present, but also for a healthy but challenged lymphatic system. Dry brushing is a wonderful alternative to a traditional lymphatic massage.
A carefully executed scar massage assists the lymphatic flow in and around compromised tissue and therefore helps to reduce swelling.
Exercise
Gentle stretching, range-of-motion exercises, strength exercises and go for walks assist the lymphatic system to drain the fluid. Once a lymphedema is stable, gentle yoga, Pilates, swimming and even light weight lifting.
Skin protection
Protect the affected body parts from cuts, injury, overuse, extreme temperatures and other situations that can increase the production of lymph fluid and make the swelling worse. Keep skin clean and dry and moisturize the skin at least once a day. Avoid lotions that contain perfume or alcohol.
Don't wear tight jewelry, clothing (including bra, socks, pants) as it add additional strain on the lymphatic system. Wearing a well fitted compression sleeve may help to move fluid and prevent the backup of fluid.
Diet
Eating a healthy diet and controlling body weight is an important part of the treatment. An alkaline based diet reduces inflammation in the body. This has a positive effect on the lymphatic system as less toxins need to be transported and cleared out of the body.