Lymphedema Pain Management
Lymphedema is swelling, typically in the arms and legs, that is caused by an over-accumulation of lymph fluid within tissues. Lymphedema has many causes. The condition may be present at birth or as a result of surgery, trauma or illness. Untreated lymphedema can result in pain, inability to use the limb, infections and other complications, according to the National Lymphedema Network.
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Movement
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Frequent movement or exercise helps to reduce swelling due to lymphedema. As heart rate increases, blood circulates so that lymphatic fluid can be removed from the swollen limb. Avoid sitting for longer than a 30-minute period so that blood is constantly moving throughout the impacted limbs. If you are sitting for prolonged periods, keep legs uncrossed and wear a compression garment to counteract swelling.
Manual Draining
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Manually massaging the swollen limbs reduces swelling to improve symptoms of lymphedema. Massage pushes the lymph fluid away from the impacted limb and into a different area of the body, where a more effective lymph node can process and reduce the fluid. Manual drainage can be performed by a caregiver or by the patient.
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Bandages and Garments
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Applying a bandage or pressure garment to a swollen limb can reduce lymphedema. Bandages are wrapped around the limb by a caregiver when swelling is low, such as after a massage. The outside pressure from the bandages keeps the limb from becoming swollen again, since there is too much pressure for the fluid to enter. Garments, such as compression stockings or sleeves, work in a similar way to keep an even pressure on the limb so that fluid is unable to reenter.
Infection Precautions
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Patients with lymphedema frequently experience breaks in the skin due to the swelling. These breaks can become infected, so good skin care must be maintained as a preventative measure. Keep nails trimmed and apply lotion to the skin to keep it moist and flexible. Wear gloves when working with sharp objects. Keep all skin in the impacted area clean and dry when possible.
Monitoring
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Patients with lymphedema should continue close monitoring by a health care professional. A physician can assess underlying causes of lymphedema and administer treatment, if necessary, such as prescribing an antibiotic for lymphedema caused by infection. A physician can also determine what treatment will best improve lymphedema symptoms. Self-monitoring is important to assess if swelling becomes worse, if other symptoms occur or if you experience complications such as infection.
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References
- Photo Credit exercise image by Inger Anne Hulbækdal from Fotolia.com
