What is the main method for lymph edema treatment ?

The main method for lymphedema treatment is compression and pharmacological therapy. Compression therapy includes manual lymph drainage , intermittent pneumatic compression therapy and Compression hosiery.

Specially trained staff should carry out manual lymphatic drainage 2-3 times a year for 10-15 procedures. With this treatment increases lymph flow, improves tissue nutrition, which is an important preventive factor in progression of lymphedema and the appearance of venous ulcers. Stimulation of lymph nodes leads to increased immunity, which is very important especially for patients with lymphedema, as these patients likely limb erysipelas, suppurative diseases of the skin and subcutaneous fat.

Intermittent pneumatic compression therapy is carried out by using a special apparatus and is consistent mechanical compression of limbs under a certain pressure. With this treatment reduced the formation of lymph by reducing capillary filtration. Improves venous drainage and skin tropism, increased skin turgor.

Compression hosiery is chosen only by a physician with regard to the nature of pathology in individual sizes. The degree of compression varies from 18 mm Hg up to 60 mm Hg Compression stockings in most cases should be worn for life, so it must meet current requirements:

Produced by the machine binding on seamless technology, the use of natural (cotton, rubber) or synthetic fibers passing a medical certification;
The physiological distribution of pressure, gradually decreasing in a proximal direction, with the reduction of the tibia and femur by 30%;
Taking into account anatomical features of the limb in the manufacture of products that eliminates the need for modeling the cylindrical profile of limbs;
High strength and long-term preservation of the original compression ratio;
Have high aesthetic characteristics.

So, now you know what is the main method for lymphedema treatment, your doctor will prescribe you the most suitable to your condition to get rid of this disease in the fastest way and to avoid further complications.

Finding the Right Treatment for Lymphedema

A patient diagnosed with lymphedema is usually overwhelmed and may not be in a position to find the appropriate treatment for lymphedema. It is a stressful situation, and finding quality treatment that is suitable to the individual needs might be difficult. However, there are many resources available to help you locate the best treatment to manage this condition.

Once you are diagnosed of this incurable condition, your doctor will explain to you the course of treatment that must be followed. The therapy is the combination of manual lymph drainage (MLD), bandaging, skin care and exercise. Use of compression garments is also essential to maintain the reduced swellings after MLD. Self hygiene, especially of the feet is essential. Skin care is important to fight off infections. Besides the therapy, patients are required to take adequate care not to injure themselves to avoid infection. The manual lymph drainage or massage therapy is handled by a profession therapist, either in a hospital setting or at the patient’s residence. After a few weeks of the therapy, the patient is taught the skills of self massage so that he can practice it at home.

The MLD has to be performed by a qualified therapist who has been trained at a reputed institute. The Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) has set some guidelines for certification of lymphedema therapists. The association recognizes a certified therapist if he or she has a valid license in any related health profession. LANA maintains a list of certified lymphedema therapists. Some therapists may operate independently or they may be associated with certain hospitals or lymphedema treatment centers. Treatment centers are located all over the country and you may find a centre close to your home so that you can easily visit the place for your treatment.

Lymphedema training programs also train therapists and these institutes usually maintain a list of all the persons successfully completing the program. You could look up some of these training institutes to find a therapist for the manual lymph drainage. The easiest way to find a therapist is to check out with the local hospital and they will guide you. If you locate an oncology practice or a cancer treatment center, they are bound to have the information on a facility offering treatment for lymphedema.

What should you look for while taking lymphedema treatment? Firstly, ensure that you are being given complete manual lymph drainage by the therapist. Gradually, you must also be taught to perform self massage or a caregiver must be trained for the therapy.

Sometimes it becomes necessary to control fluid accumulation, so diuretics may be used to stimulate the flow towards the venous system. Correct method of bandaging is imperative so you must learn the technique from the therapist.

Treatment for lymphedema includes exercising so that the body can remain mobilized to stimulate lymph flow towards the right direction. It also promotes a general feeling of good health. Another important factor in lymphedema treatment is following the correct diet. A balanced diet helps to maintain the good health of the body thus enabling it to fight against infections and other complications that may present themselves. Any injury should be treated immediately and care should be taken to see that infections do not set in. Cancer survivors who are at a high risk for lymphedema should be extra careful not to cause any trauma to the body part that has been treated for cancer. Preventive measures go a long way in delaying the onset of lymphedema in high-risk patients. A correct diagnosis and quick treatment will help to manage the condition in a better way.