Lymphedema during cancer treatment

One of the side effects of cancer treatment is lymphedema. This is an excessive accumulation of lymph fluid in the body's cavities. Lymphedema during cancer treatment often causes a lot of trouble for patients and can progress to more severe if not detected and treated early.

Lymphedema is a condition in which lymph fluid does not drain properly. It can build up in tissues and cause edema and swelling. This can happen when part of the lymphatic system is damaged or blocked, such as during surgery to remove lymph nodes or radiation therapy. Cancer that blocks lymphatic vessels can also cause lymphedema.
Lymphedema is considered a side effect of cancer treatment. Lymphedema usually affects the arms or legs, but it can also affect other parts of the body, such as the head and neck. Patients may notice symptoms of lymphedema in the part of the body that has had surgery or radiation therapy. Swelling usually develops slowly, over time. Lymphedema during cancer treatment can also appear as late as several years after treatment.
At first, lymphedema in the arms or legs can cause symptoms such as:
Swelling and a feeling of heaviness or pain in the arms or legs, which can spread to the fingers and toes An indentation when pressed on the swollen area Swelling, tender to the touch, and usually painless at first Lymphedema during cancer treatment if not detected early or not well controlled can cause more serious complications:
More swelling, weakness, and difficulty moving an arm or leg Itching, redness, warm skin, and sometimes a rash Wounds that don't heal and increased risk of skin infections can cause pain, redness and swelling Skin thickening or hardening Sensation of tension in the skin, pressing on the swelling leaves no indentation. Hair loss Lymphedema in the head or neck can cause:
Swelling and uncomfortable feeling of tightness in the face, neck or under the chin Difficulty moving the head or neck The patient should inform the doctor or go to the doctor immediately medical facilities as soon as symptoms are noticed. Early treatment can prevent or reduce the severity of problems caused by lymphedema.

Steps that the patient may be advised to take to prevent lymphedema or to keep it from getting worse include:
Protect the skin. Use lotion to prevent skin dryness. Use sunscreen to protect your skin. Wear cotton-lined plastic gloves when working to avoid scratching or burning the skin. Keep feet clean and dry. Keep fingernails clean and short to avoid ingrown nails and infection. Avoid wearing tight shoes and wearing jewelry that is too tight. Practice. Perform exercises to keep body fluids moving, especially in places where lymphedema has developed. Start with gentle exercises that get you moving and contracting. Talk to your doctor about what exercises are best for you. Manual lymphatic drainage. See a trained professional (a certified lymphedema therapist) to receive a type of therapeutic massage known as manual lymphatic drainage. Massage therapy works best to reduce lymphedema when done early, before symptoms become severe.

Your doctor may advise you to take the following steps to treat lymphedema:
Wear a dressing or compression bandage. Wear special clothing, such as sleeves, socks, bras, compression shorts, gloves, bandages, and compression clothing on the face or neck. Some suits are worn during the day, while others are advised to be worn at night. Other devices. Your healthcare provider may recommend other types of compression devices (special pumps that apply pressure periodically) or laser or other treatments. Talk openly with your doctor and other health care professionals about lymphedema. Make a list of questions to ask such as: What can I do to prevent lymphedema during cancer treatment? What symptoms should I call my doctor? What can I do to feel better? Did my doctor recommend that I see a lymphedema therapist? If lymphedema progresses, what special clothing should I wear during the day? During the night? It is best during cancer treatment if there are any health problems, patients should go to medical facilities to be examined by a doctor and have timely indications. Avoid letting the disease progress for a long time, causing serious health effects.
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