Cancer Lymphedema
Cancer lymphedema is known as Secondary Lymphedema.
Secondary Lymphedema can be the result of cancer treatments involving chemotherapy or radiation or the removal of the lymph nodes. It is abnormal buildup of fluid in the arm or the leg due to an obstruction or injury to the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system which is a series of nodes and channels that transports the lymphatic fluids through the body and is an important part of the body’s immune defenses. The breakdown or the lack of functioning of the lymphatic system weakens the immune system and causes further complications for a lymphedema patient who is already in a delicate state of health.
Surgery to remove lymph nodes in the underarm, pelvic area or groin while treating cancer is the main causative factor for lymphedema. Cancer treatment could also involve radiation or chemotherapy which again can cause injury to the lymphatic system and obstruct it functioning correctly. If the cancer has metastasized, or spread from the original location, surgery to the lymph nodes is necessary. In such cases, there is every chance of the patient developing lymphedema after surgery. Hence, cancer is the largest causative factor for lymphedema.
There is a large number of women suffering from cancer in today’s world. A number of them may suffer from lymphedema as an after effect of the treatment for cancer. Till today, doctors are at a loss to understand why some breast cancer survivors develop lymphedema while others do not. During breast surgery, the surgeon may have to perform a Sentinel Node Biopsy or remove a lymph node from the underarm to find out if the cancer has spread to other areas. If cancer cells are present in the lymph nodes, then it is concluded that the cancer has spread to other areas and may require aggressive treatment.
Removal of the lymph nodes alters the pathway of the lymph flow. Usually the lymph vessels are also damaged in the process. Hence, it becomes difficult for the remaining lymphatic vessels to drain the fluids in the chest and arm area. The excess fluids begin to collect in the extremities and cause a swelling. The condition develops immediately after surgery and may disappear after about six months. In some cases however, this swelling lasts for years together, probably for life.
Breast cancer patients must remain alert to the earliest signs of lymphedema. Timely treatment of the symptoms right at the beginning may help to prevent the condition from worsening or even delay the onset of lymphedema. Women can take a few precautions to improve the swelling. Using the arm for daily activities like eating, washing or combing the hair is a form of exercise. Apart from this, the patient can do regular arm exercises prescribed by the doctor to improve arm mobility. Other precautions would include self care measures like avoiding cuts and burns to the arm, using gloves while doing household chores, avoiding muscle stress or using tight clothes and jewelry, etc. Such safety measures will go a long way in keeping lymphedema at bay.
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Breast Cancer Lymph Nodes – What Is The Link?
There is a close relation with breast cancer lymph nodes. Our lymph nodes act as filters within the body to stop bacteria and viruses. There is every possibility that cancer cells may have travelled from the breast and settled into the lymph nodes. The rationale behind removing the lymph nodes in the arm is to remove the cancer cells that may have spread from the breast to the lymph nodes and prevent the cancer from spreading.
The lymph nodes are present in various locations of the body and those associated with breast cancer are located around the neck region and under the arm. Very often, the lymph nodes under the arm, known as axillary nodes, have to be removed as a part of breast cancer treatment. There are two types of surgeries that may be performed and they are the Sentinel Node Biopsy and the Axillary Node Dissection.
The Sentinel Node Biopsy:
If the doctor feels that the cancer from the breast has spread to the lymph nodes, a sentinel node biopsy will be performed. Although it is a surgical procedure, it is less invasive. A special dye is used to locate the cancer in the lymph node that is most likely to be affected. To determine if further treatment is required, the doctors remove only that lymph node for examination. If cancer is detected, then the doctors can take steps to perform surgery and if not, no more removal of lymph nodes in necessary. It is advantageous because early detection of cancer can help to prevent it from spreading. With sentinel node biopsy, it is an outpatient procedure, and there are fewer side effects.
Axillary Node Dissection:
There are between ten and thirty lymph nodes under the arm. Axillary Lymph Node Dissection may be performed as a part of mastectomy or lumpectomy, where some or all of the axillary nodes are removed. Being an invasive and painful procedure, it also has many side effects. One of them is lymphedema of the arm. However, this is the only way to prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. Women who have advanced stage of cancer are more likely to require axillary node removal.
Axillary node dissection helps to make the complete diagnosis of cancer and allows it to be classified into its appropriate stage. If the nodes are found to be clear, there is no spread of cancer. On the other hand, if cancer has been diagnosed, the appropriate treatment depending upon its severity can be started. Lymphedema of the arm or the hand is the most common side effect of breast cancer surgery. This involves swelling of the arm due to retention of fluids, a condition which, if happens cannot be reversed, but can be managed with therapy. Treating lymphedema involves the complete decongestive therapy which includes a lymphatic massage. Compression bandages are applied after massage, and the patient uses compression sleeves or a compression bra to maintain the reduction and prevent the swelling from recurring.
Depending on the severity of the breast cancer, the lymph nodes are removed. If few nodes have been removed, there is less incidence of lymphedema. It may only be a temporary condition which will go away within a few weeks after the surgery. If all the axillary lymph nodes are removed, the patient may suffer from severe lymphedema of the arm and the condition usually remains for life.
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Arm Lymphedema – Symptoms and Treatment
Arm lymphedema occurs when there is an obstruction in the lymphatic flow in the arm due to a trauma to the lymphatic nodes and vessels. It is a common condition among women who have been treated with radiation or surgery for breast cancer. Removal of the lymph nodes either by axillary lymph node dissection or sentinel lymph node biopsy can result in fluid build up in the arm causing a swelling. This could be acute lymphedema where the condition may last for a few months after surgery, or it could be chronic wherein the condition lasts for years together or almost throughout life.
The most visible symptoms of the condition are the swelling in the arm. The swelling may be mild so it is not noticeable or it could be so severe that the arm balloons out of proportion and cannot be used for any activity. The swelling could appear in the hand or the fingers of the affected arm. There may also be an ache or a sense of discomfort in the arm. Skin on the arm may thicken or become fibrotic. Generally, the patient would notice that clothes become tight around the sleeves or that rings and bracelets do not fit any more.
The aim of the treatment for arm lymphedema is to reduce the swelling and to prevent it from recurring. The lymphatic system cannot be repaired, so once the lymphedema has set in, there is no way to reverse it. The treatment follows the standard practice of a physical therapy involving manual lymph drainage, bandages, compression garments, skin care and exercise. The therapy is aimed at helping the patients to continue their daily activities as much a possible. Massage therapy helps to stimulate the lymph fluid to move out of the arm and to the venous system, thus reducing the swelling.
Compression garments put the pressure and give resistance to the muscles so as to promote a pumping action that induces the lymph drainage from the arm. The patient may be required to wear a full compression sleeve or a gauntlet, depending on the spread of the edema. A compression bra is worn by women who had mastectomy or lumpectomy. Certain upper body exercises are also an integral part of treatment.
Until recently, doctors treating breast cancer survivors advised their patients against lifting bags or heavy objects with the affected arm. They even asked the patients to wear the watch on the other wrist so as not to aggravate the condition. However, now, new studies have come up with a contrasting view –weight lifting may be good for the arm in case of breast cancer survivors. It was proved in the study that weight lifting, in fact, gave strength to the muscles in the arm and increased overall fitness in the women who had breast cancer surgery.
Skin care is another important aspect of arm lymphedema treatment. Skin should be kept hydrated to prevent it from drying out and cracking. If skin problems occur, they may lead to severe complications of bacterial infections and cellulitis. Therefore, patients must take great precautions to avoid injuries, cuts, burns and bruises to the skin. Open wounds are an entry point for bacteria and hence need to be treated immediately.
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Finding a Lymphedema Specialist
An individual diagnosed with lymphedema has to undergo treatment to control or reduce the symptoms since the condition is never completely curable. The lymphedema specialist is one who is trained to offer special therapy consisting of manual lymph drainage, bandaging and an exercise regimen to reduce the swelling happening due to lymphedema. Therapists are healthcare professionals who are specially trained to perform the massage involved in manual lymph drainage. They can also provide the patient necessary guidance with compression bandaging and garments, as well as skin care precautions and exercises.
Lymphedema needs to be managed before it gets out of hand. Usually the doctor will create a plan for your treatment to reduce the pooling of fluids and bring down the swelling. However, your own participation in this plan is extremely important for successful therapy. If your arm is affected, use your arm as much as possible to complete routine tasks like combing the hair, dressing, washing or eating. For leg lymphedema, you can do the exercises that have been taught to you by your therapist. The idea is to keep the lymphatic fluids in circulation so that there is no pooling effect to cause a swelling in the affected body part.
There are other general precautions that a person at risk of lymphedema can take. Avoiding alcohol and smoking helps to keep the body energetic and healthy. Maintaining an ideal weight ensures that your weakened lymphatic system does not have to strain to maintain the drainage. Controlling the blood sugars if you have diabetes is essential to reduce the risk of damaging the blood vessels. It is imperative not to overdo any physical activity to the point of fatigue. You can also take your lymphedema specialist’s advice if you intend to travel long distances by air. He may advise you to wear a compression sleeve depending on your symptoms and will also help you with the fitting of the garment.
Physiatrists are doctors who are specialists in treating pain and injuries without using surgical treatments. They are also known as rehabilitation specialists because their specialty is to restore the lost functioning of any limb that has been injured or has a disability. Being trained in physical medicine and rehabilitation, physiatrists also work towards the prevention of the ailment. In case of lymphedema, just as it is important to treat the condition, it is equally important to prevent a recurrence of the symptoms. The lymphedema therapist tries to achieve both these goals. Generally, a physiatrist is well qualified to treat lymphedema, although he or she may additionally train for the special technique of the lymphedema massage.
The complex nature of the lymphedema condition may, at times make it difficult for a single health care professional to deal with the disease. Therefore, it becomes necessary to have a team or panel of doctors that can prescribe the right treatment. Often, lymphedema patients are cancer survivors, so an oncologist is always in the picture. Recurring infections due to the vulnerability of the lymphatic system are very common. Hence, an infectious diseases expert is required. If wounds and ulcers are a problem, they need to be looked at by a doctor specializing in wound treatment. The service of a physical therapist is essential for the massages and of course, the family physician is also a part of the team. The lymphedema specialists’ team should, however, work together with the aim of treating the lymphedema patient. The doctors should be aware of the delicate state of the patient’s immune system and general health and plan a course of treatment accordingly.
Lymphedema Centers for Treatment
Until recently, lymphedema sufferers had to endure the condition because of lack of treatment facilities. However, with increasing awareness about this condition many patients are referred to lymphedema centers that have the facilities for treatment and management of this otherwise incurable ailment. Hospital based treatment programs were initially started for breast cancer survivors who had gone through a surgical procedure and were at a high risk for lymphedema of the arm. Since lymphedema can be caused due to injury to the lymphatic system, apart from breast cancer survivors, other patients who have undergone surgical procedures for the lymphatic system also suffer from secondary lymphedema. Therapy is needed to manage primary as well as secondary lymphedema and hospitals are now treating a large number of patients.
Many lymphedema therapists use the complete decongestive therapy (CDT) as a method of treatment which is highly effective and has shown positive results. This therapy helps the patients to reduce the swelling in the affected limb, bring it to an almost normal size, and maintain that reduction. Lymphedema sufferers have to contend with the risk of frequent infections and skin ailments along with problems of mobility and lifestyle. The decongestive therapy addresses these issues as well and promotes wound healing, softening of skin and deals with other health problems faced by these patients. A successful decongestive therapy can bring about a dramatic change in the patient’s overall health and quality of life.
During the patient’s first visit to a lymphedema center, the staff usually conducts an evaluation of the condition and the medical history. Baseline measurements of the affected areas are also taken. A typical therapy session would begin with a gentle massage technique to stimulate the fluids from the affected limb towards the blood circulatory system so that the pooled fluids are drained. This helps to reduce the swelling in the area. Compression bandaging helps to maintain the reduction. After the desired reduction has been achieved, the patient is asked to wear a compression garment during the day. In some cases, bandaging may be required at night. Usually the patients have to follow the practice of using compression garments or bandaging throughout their life in order to manage lymphedema.
In order to control lymphedema, the patient is taught some self-management techniques like self-massage and bandaging. Besides that, patients are also taught special exercises to maintain the flexibility and to keep the lymph fluids in circulation. Tips are provided on preventing injuries, infections and precautions to be taken during air travel. Usually, the therapist at the lymphedema center will train a family member or a caregiver in the massage techniques and general care, so that the condition can be managed at home in the later stages of therapy.
It is possible to prevent the incidence of lymphedema if individuals at a high risk are educated about the precautions they can take. Those who opt for treatment at the first signs of swelling stand a greater chance of controlling the condition or even reversing the symptoms. Doctors must guide patients at risk about the early signs that they must look out for, if they wish to delay the onset of lymphedema. Due to lack of knowledge, many people seek treatment only when the condition has progressed to a stage where it cannot be reversed.
Some lymphedema centers attached to certain large hospitals have extensive research facilities that can prove beneficial to the patients as newer approaches and improved medications are used for treatment. Many centers also have support groups that are facilitated by lymphedema specialists to address the psychological as well as the emotional aspects so that the patient is better equipped to cope with the condition. Meetings held for patients as well as their family members enable them to interact with others in the same situation and share their experiences.
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Kinesio Tape Lymphedema: New Treatment
There are is an abundance of treatment methods for lymphedema and Kinesio Tape lymphedema is one of them. Based on the premise that the body makes use of its own healing powers, Kinesio Taping follows the science of kinesiology. The muscles in our body besides helping with movement, also help to control the circulation, lymph flow and temperature of the body. The Kinesio tape which has an elastic quality is used to help the muscles and tissues to function. Application of the tape correctly enables the muscles to move freely but without restriction. It gives support to the muscles and helps to reduce edema due to stretching of the muscles and soft tissues.
Treating lymphedema with Kinesio Tape is being recognized as a safe and simple method of treating lymphedema. However, the treatment should be carried out only by a trained lymphedema therapist. This is because there is a certain technique used to affix the tape and one must be trained to do it correctly. The tape is applied to the skin in such a manner as to cause massage-like sensations that help to direct the lymphatic fluids away from the affected area. The lifting and stretching of the skin during muscle movement enhances lymphatic flow. The tape’s action on the sensory receptors of the skin helps to improve muscle contraction. Joints affected by lymphedema can be stabilized by using the tape on the inflamed joint.
The Kinesio tape helps to improve the blood circulation in the affected area, thus promoting healing. Any swelling retains body fluids and causes pain or numbness in the area. The tape helps to move out the excess fluid, thus helping to alleviate the condition. The Kinesio Taping therapy can be used as an additional treatment along with the complete decongestive therapy. It is particularly useful in areas affected by lymphedema where bandaging or massage is not possible. The tape also helps to soften the fibrotic tissues in the lymphedema patient.
Some precautions need to be taken while using the Kinesio tape to treat lymphedema. Although the therapist applies the tape, a caregiver or family member is responsible for the removal of the tape after about three days. This needs to be done carefully and correctly because lymphedema sufferers have a very sensitive skin that is easily prone to cracking and breaking. The tape adheres to the upper layer of the skin, so while removing it, care should be taken to see that it does not damage the skin. If this happens, the burn on the skin should be treated immediately. The trick to remove the tape easily is to hold up an edge of the tape and gently push down the skin to dislodge it from the adhesive. Some cooking or massage oil could be applied to the tape so that it will help loosen the adhesive much more easily.
While Kinesio Taping will not actually cure lymphedema, it will help to reduce the symptoms. It may or may not work for all lymphedema patients and whether it can replace the compression garment remains to be seen. One disadvantage could be the issue of damage to the skin. As the skin structure is very delicate, there is a possibility of causing an injury or bruise which needs to be treated quickly. A combination of manual lymph drainage and application of the Kinesio Tape have shown good results in the treatment of lymphedema. Although it has been extensively used in treating sports injuries, it shows great promise of becoming a new treatment method for lymphedema.
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Hospital Lymphedema
Lymphedema is condition where there is swelling of the limbs due to a malfunctioning of the lymphatic system. Patients diagnosed with this condition often find it difficult to locate hospitals treating lymphedema close to their residence. In this article, we try to give you some insight into the treatment methods and the resources you can use to find the best quality treatment for this condition.
Lymphedema can be managed with the help of therapy which is known as a complete decongestive therapy. This therapy has been accepted world-wide as a standard treatment for lymphedema because it is highly effective. The therapy is a combination of various processes like the manual lymph drainage, followed by compression bandaging to maintain the reduction in swelling and following a special exercise regimen along with meticulous skin care. The manual lymph drainage process is a gentle massage given by a therapist to stimulate lymph drainage. It helps in moving out the stagnated fluids in the affected limb and reducing the swelling. Compression bandages are applied to maintain the reduction and prevent it from recurring. Apart from this physical therapy, patients are taught to exercise in order to promote circulation and improve the flexibility and strength of the muscles.
Although there may not be a specialized lymphedema hospital, many medical facilities have a lymphedema rehabilitation center that offers lymphedema therapy on an outpatient basis. The easiest way is to contact your local hospital and ask if they provide lymphedema therapy. Even if they do not, at least they would be able to refer you to a facility that does. You can even check out with an oncologist or a cancer treatment facility since they would have information on places offering lymphedema treatment. Usually, physical therapy rehabilitation centers do provide treatment. Other resources include checking out the various websites on lymphedema –they generally provide a list of lymphedema treatment centers.
The National Lymphedema Network offers a list of treatment facilities on their website. It also provides information on lymphedema therapists that you could use to find a therapist close to you. Another useful portal is the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA), which maintains a list of certified therapists. All therapists who have taken a LANA certification course are listed on the website, which is the best resource on anything you would like to know about lymphedema. Volder and Foldi certified therapists are also well qualified in lymphatic therapy. You may find some of these lymphedema therapists associated with major hospitals or rehabilitation centers.
Treatment plans formulated by the lymphedema specialists are suited to the individual’s needs. The therapist will first evaluate the case and decide on the course of action. Nevertheless, the therapy will include manual lymph drainage, bandaging to prevent fluid accumulation, education in self–management of the condition, skin care instructions and lifestyle modifications. The lymphedema therapist will work towards reducing the edema and enhance the functionality of the affected limb as much as possible. The length of the treatment depends on the stage to which the lymphedema has progressed. Generally, the patients have to visit the hospital center five times a week in the first two weeks and subsequently, as the condition improves, the frequency of the therapy is reduced. The aim of the lymphedema treatment is to help the patient manage the condition, cope with the emotional as well as the physical aspects, and learn to live as comfortably as possible. Hospitals and lymphedema treatment centers work alongside the patient to achieve this goal.
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An Introduction to Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema or lymphedema is a condition where there is fluid retention due to a damaged lymphatic system which causes a swelling. It is also known as lymphatic obstruction and more often is the aftermath of a cancer treatment involving surgery or radiation. Primary lymphedema is a hereditary condition, present at the birth of the individual. However, secondary lymphedema is more common among persons who have had any kind of cancer surgery including mastectomy, lumpectomy and radiation therapy to the lymph nodes in the groin, armpit, pelvis or abdomen. The symptoms of the condition may appear as soon as a few days after surgery or occur years later.
The main reason for this condition is trauma to the lymphatic system, such as in case of cancer surgery, where the path of the fluid movement is obstructed. Due to the removal of the lymph nodes, the lymph begins to stagnate at one area causing a swelling. After cancer treatment, this is an expected side effect, a reason why doctors always monitor the case by taking arm or leg measurements. An early diagnosis of lymphedema enables the doctor to begin treatment so that the condition does not progress beyond control. Treatment is highly effective in the early stages of the disease.
Initial symptoms of lymphoedema may show up as a rash or pain in the arm or leg on the side that had the surgery. There could be a swelling in the fingers, arms, hands, chest, shoulders or leg. The first occurrence of the swelling is often the result of a cut, bruise, sunburn or even a sports injury. Sometimes the episode of swelling could start off during a long airplane trip due to a sudden drop in pressure. The patient may experience skin tightness and reduced flexibility in the wrist or ankle. Sometimes clothes may not fit in a particular area or a bracelet or watch may suddenly begin to feel tight. These are initial symptoms for early stage lymphedema and require immediate attention of a doctor.
The doctor may evaluate the condition with the help of the patient’s medical history, some tests and a physical examination. Treatment is based on the symptoms and sometimes antibiotics may be prescribed to cure an infection. An important aspect of lymphedema treatment is health care. This includes personal hygiene, skin care and avoiding injury to the affected limb. Bandaging of the affected part and keeping it elevated are also part of treatment. A gentle massage to direct the lymphatic fluids towards the venous system is necessary to curb the swelling. Exercise plays a major role by increasing the flexibility of the limbs thus promoting lymph circulation.
Lymphoedema cannot be cured but it can certainly be managed with proper precautions and treatment. The onset of the disease can be delayed by following a balanced diet. Avoid a diet with high salt or fat content. Fruits and vegetables supply the body with a variety of nutrients that help to strengthen it to combat disease. Drinking adequate quantities of water (8 glasses per day) is important to keep the body hydrated. Regular exercise is a must to retain mobility. It is imperative to avoid injury to the lymphedema affected body part so that infection does not set in.
A person suffering from lymphedema has a weak immune system and is therefore prone to infection. Hence, they must remain alert to any signs of infection like a skin rash, irritable throat, pain while swallowing, nausea, diarrhea or a persistent cough. It is prudent to avoid tight clothes or jewelry so as not to stress the affected limbs. Comfortable closed shoes should be worn so that the feet are protected. With these precautions, it is possible to deal with lymphedema and prevent it from progressing further.
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Choosing a Lymphedema Physical Therapist
Lymphedema is treated with the help of complex decongestive therapy that involves manual lymph drainage and compression bandaging, for which you would require the assistance of a lymphedema physical therapist. The National Lymphedema Network (NLN) recommends the services of a therapist trained in lymphedema care, having at least 135 hours of training according to the guidelines laid down by the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA). However, lymphedema care and therapy is quite complex so you must find a therapist who is skilled enough to provide the therapy that you need. It is also important to visit a good therapist you are comfortable with, so that you get the best result with your treatment.
When choosing a lymphedema therapist the first step is to get an idea of the expenses involved. You can check out various therapists to get an idea of the rates they would charge you and consider whether you would need to travel long distances to get the therapy. It is preferable, although not necessary, to get a referral from your doctor so that the therapist can get some accurate information regarding your case to decide on the course of the therapy. This article explains some of the issues to consider while selecting a lymphedema physical therapist.
- You must feel comfortable during the initial contact with the therapist. You must get a warm and sympathetic response to your condition. As a patient, you deserve a physical therapist who is willing to work with you and give you the proper attention and care during your treatment.
- It is advisable to give your medical history to the therapist so that he or she can assess your condition and decide the best course of therapy for you. You must ask the therapist about the costs, time and management of the condition in the beginning so as not cause any confusion in future.
- A good therapist will discuss the best treatment for your condition in relation to your finances and also take into account any reimbursement of the costs from a medical insurance plan, if you have one. The therapist should be able to provide you approximate ongoing costs that could include the cost of compression garments and general care.
- Ensure that your therapist will be teaching you the correct exercises to maintain the reduction of the edema. New research findings recommend a range of exercises, so you could select the best one suitable with the guidance of your therapist.
- Generally, a lymphedema physical therapist is expected to provide guidance with the compression bandaging to the patient or a caregiver. They usually provide instructions on how to wear the garment correctly for proper compression, as well as instructions on garment care.
Successful treatment of lymphedema depends largely on what you are prepared to do and how much time you are prepared to give for the treatment. Ideally, the massage should be performed at least five times a week and the course should run for four weeks to get the best results. If you are financially constrained, then a two-week course is also helpful. However, a lot depends on the skills of the therapist as well and he or she should be capable of empathizing with your situation. Lymphedema is an ongoing condition that can only be controlled with treatment. You might need the help of your therapist for other issues like selecting the right type of compression garment or procuring a new one to accommodate the changes in the edema. Therefore, you must also ensure that your lymphedema physical therapist will provide the necessary assistance in future if you require a repeat course of lymphedema therapy.
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Lymphoedema Australia Association and Support Groups
Lymphedema is quite common and many people around the world suffer from it. It can be treated and certainly reduced even though it is not completely curable. Many organizations are trying to gather together information about this condition which till now has remained largely un-researched. The Lymphoedema Australia Association was founded in 1982 with an aim to support research in the field of lymphedema, particularly its treatment and symptoms, besides disseminating information about the condition among patients, therapists and doctors. The founders Dr. John R. Casley-Smith and Dr. Judith R. Casley-Smith have been researching lymphedema since 1959 and have coordinated with others around the world who are working in this field.
The Association tries to increase the awareness about lymphoedema among patients as well as the medical fraternity. The website provides the resources to find information about this ailment and has specific sections meant for patients as well as doctors. Not all information contained in the website may be of interest to patients; however, it is a good general guide to the little known ailment of lymphedema. For an individual who is suffering from lymphedema, the Lymphoedema Association of Australia can be a very valuable resource to find therapists, specialist physicians, support groups and lymphedema product suppliers apart from information on treatment therapies and lymphedema in general.
Although it is impossible to cover all aspects of lymphedema, the site aims to be of help to patients who are in need of support to cope with this debilitating condition. There are numerous suggestions for treatment with some being the standard and recognized therapies while others being alternatives which are not scientifically proven and may even be dangerous. Patients are advised to discuss the treatment methods with their doctors to ascertain the suitability of the treatment to their individual conditions. Doctors are able to evaluate the condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
The Lymphoedema Association of Australia also provides training in complex decongestive therapy. Many listed therapists have been trained by experts at the Association. Besides these therapists, other therapists operating in Australia are also listed. In-depth information on skin care products, medications and compression bandages is provided on the site along with a list of suppliers in Australia and the US. A list of books, videos and cassettes is provided on the website and patients can even check out previous newsletters if they want some specific data.
Lymphoedema Australia support groups aim to support people living with lymphedema through education and spreading information. Support groups are being set up in Mt. Wilga Hospital, Westmead, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and St. George Hospital. The main goal of the support groups is to bring together people suffering from lymphedema so that they can share their experiences with others in a similar situation. Attending support group meetings enables the patients to vent out their feelings and thus helps them to cope with the condition in a better manner. Usually there is a small annual subscription fee and an entry charge to take care of the administrative costs of such meetings.
Lymphoedema research in Australia is not lagging behind compared to other regions of the world. Major research is ongoing in Australia to find better methods of treatment. A study on factors influencing edema after breast cancer treatment was conducted by a lymphedema therapist for a company selling the compression bra. The National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia is conducting research on arm lymphedema and hopes to do comprehensive research on the subject in order to educate the patients about this condition.
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