Controlling the Effects of Lymphedema

Lymphedema is an abnormal buildup of fluid that causes swelling, most often in the arms or legs. The condition develops when lymph nodes are missing, impaired, damaged, or removed. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Lymphedema, there are many ways to help control the effects of Lymphedema such as:

Maintaining Good Nutrition
Include at least two to four servings of fruits and three to five servings of vegetables in your daily meal plan.

Reducing Foods High in Salt and Fat
Use food package labels to help you to make the best selections for a healthy lifestyle.

Exercising Regularly
Always check with your physician first before starting a new exercise program.

Avoiding Infections
Immediately report any signs of infection to your home health nurse or physician.

Planning a treatment program depends on the cause of the lymphedema as well as the stage and the cause of the illness. Your physician may recommend treatments such as bandaging, compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage and a gentle form of stretching or massage.

Your physician may also refer you to a therapist who specializes in managing lymphedema. Lymphedema therapists come to this field from a variety of backgrounds, including nursing, physical and occupational therapy, and massage therapy, among others.

A Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) has a deep understanding of the lymphatic system, plus knowledge and experience in the hands-on skills required to perform the treatments. “The Standards for the Required Training of a Lymphedema Therapist” are published on the National Lymphedema Network website. The lymphedema therapist will assess your condition and develop an individual treatment plan to manage your lymphedema.

If you or a loved one would like to find a qualified lymphedema therapist, you might wish to use the following resources:

Millcreek Home Health and Hospice offers three lymphedema therapists to provide therapy.

The physician who diagnosed your lymphedema should be able to recommend to you a qualified lymphedema therapist.

Insurance companies know where lymphedema is treated. Ask your insurance company for suggestions as to where you can find “in network” treatment.

Lymphedema cannot be cured. However, with proper care and treatment, the affected limb can be restored to a normal size and shape. In addition, lymphedema can be treated and controlled so that it does not progress further.