Lymphedema - A Natural Approach to a Better Life
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a condition that causes swelling, typically in the arms or legs. It causes a buildup of lymph fluid under the fatty tissue of the skin. This fluid buildup occurs due to a blockage. When the buildup becomes too great, it causes the arms or legs to swell. Lymphedema in the legs is particularly common. Lymphedema is a condition commonly associated with cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation.
There are two types of Lymphedema:
Primary Lymphedema - Primary lymphedema is an inherited condition that causes an abnormality with lymph vessels beginning at birth.
Secondary Lymphedema - Secondary lymphedema is a condition that is developed as the result of improperly functioning lymph vessels and nodes.
What Causes Lymphedema?
The lymphatic system circulates a protein-rich lymph fluid throughout the body which collects bacteria, viruses and harmful substances to protect the body against infection and disease. When the lymph vessels are compromised such as by radiation or chemotherapy, they cannot properly carry the fluid throughout the body.
As a result, lymphedema causes a buildup of lymph fluid that can no longer circulate properly. This then leads to swelling in the arms or legs and at sites of lymph nodes. Lymphedema also stem from damage done to the lymph nodes or removal of lymph nodes. When an inherited condition causes lymph vessels to improperly function then this causes primary lymphedema.
Lymphedema symptoms include:
Swelling in one arm or leg
Partial or full swelling in arms or legs, including in the fingers and toes
Tightness or heaviness in the affected limbs
Limited range of motion in limbs
Discomfort and aching
Frequent infections due to compromised lymphatic system
Hardened skin
Depending on which parts of the body are affected you may experience lymphedema in the legs or arms or both. Lymphedema symptoms can range from mild to severe. The level of swelling may fluctuate over time making it more difficult to use the affected limb. This can be very uncomfortable.
Lymphedema Products:
Botanical Delights Circulation Lymph Butter stimulates blood flow in the veins, lymph movement in the lymphatic system and helps shift the toxin build up throughout your body.
Cautions:
Surgical treatments for lymphedema are used to remove excess fluid and tissue in severe cases, but no surgical treatment is able to cure lymphedema.
Infections of skin and tissues associated with lymphedema must be promptly and effectively treated with appropriate antibiotics to avoid spread to the bloodstream (sepsis). Patients affected by lymphedema must constantly monitor for infection of the affected area.
References
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/basics/definition/con-20025603
https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/lymphedema.html
http://www.medicinenet.com/lymphedema/article.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/basics/causes/con-20025603
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/basics/symptoms/con-20025603
