Lymphedema is a swelling condition that commonly occurs in the arm and leg. If left untreated, it can lead to progressive tissue swelling.
While it is not curable, lymphedema can be treated to alleviate pain and swelling and reduce the risks of infection. Many people with the condition benefit from lymphedema physical therapy. What is lymphedema? Lymphedema is an accumulation of fluid lymph in soft body tissues, due to impairment of the lymphatic vessels. This build up of lymph causes swelling called lymphedema. The lymphatic system carries a clear fluid called lymph, which drains out from tiny blood capillaries to lymphatic vessels throughout the body.
Lymph contains water, fats, white blood cells and other components. Lymph from tissues and organs drains into the lymph vessels and is carried to the lymph nodes where it is filtered. The collected lymphatic fluid is eventually returned to the blood stream via the subclavian vein. For breast cancer patients, lymphedema might occur in the arm of the affected breast, hand, trunk, back or chest wall. What causes lymphedema?
Lymphedema can result from damage or trauma to the lymphatic system or removal of lymph nodes. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and helps fight off illnesses and infections. When the lymphatic system is damaged or not working well, lymphatic fluid can build up in the affected area and cause swelling.
In addition, lymphedema can lead to open wounds, skin discoloration and infection that can result in loss of mobility. Cancer treatment can affect the fluid drainage channels of the lymphatic system. When axillary lymph nodes are removed during breast cancer surgery with sentinel node biopsy or axillary dissection , or are treated with radiation, some of the lymph vessels can become blocked or can disappear altogether.
