Lymphedema (elephant disease) is the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the intercellular space, causing swelling, mostly in the hands, arms or feet. Unlike the blood circulation, the lymphatic fluids between the cells filter slowly and mix with the blood. If the lymph channels and lymph nodes that carry lymph fluid are damaged or have congenital defects, lymph fluid accumulates in body parts and causes lymphedema. This condition is usually progressive and may become permanent if not treated in time.
What are the causes of lymphedema?
The cause of some lymphedema is unknown. Some lymphedema may develop after breast surgery, radiotherapy, infection or trauma. Removing lymph nodes for the treatment of some cancers, such as breast cancer, always carries the risk of lymphedema. If radiotherapy is performed after lymph node removal, the risk of developing lymphedema increases further. Lymphedema may also develop after orthopedic and other surgical procedures performed on the leg. Lymphedema may develop immediately after surgery or may take up to 15 years to appear. It starts with mild findings and almost always progresses.
Lymphedema is divided into three stages.
Stage 1: This is the reversible lymphedema stage.
Temporary swelling. is seen. Edema gradually increases during the day and disappears after rest at night.
Stage 2: Chronic irreversible lymph edema.
Continuous swelling. It progresses with decreased sensation, pain, burning and limitation of movement.
Stage 3: Lymphostatic Elephanthiasis (Elephanthiasis).
Increasing limb deformation over time, significant limitation of movement and function,
serious pain occurs.
What are the symptoms?
* One-sided swelling that leaves a mark when pressed.
* Chimney Asymmetry in the arms and legs
* Painless, heavily stretched and full arm or leg
* Skin folding and thickening, discoloration
* Starting from the hand or foot and upwards Progressive edema
* Joint movements are affected over time
* Easy development of infection
How is lymphedema treated?
The period from the onset of lymphedema complaints to its treatment usually takes a long time due to the inability to find the appropriate treatment, lack of information, or misinformation. This causes delays in treatment. Treatment of lymphedema is done with complex excretory physiotherapy. In this method, patients are treated with a special lymph drainage massage performed entirely by hand, followed by compression therapy with bandages specific to lymphedema. Manual lymph drainage applied to the tissue with very light pressure ensures the filling of the lymph vessels and improves the relaxation and contraction of the lymph vessels.
At the end of the treatment, the patient is given a compression garment with appropriate pressure. This treatment reduces the volume of the affected arm or leg and provides lymph circulation. Features of bandaging used in lymphedema treatment: It prevents the reaccumulation of lymph fluid in the affected limb by applying high pressure during muscle activity and low pressure during muscle rest. These treatments are supported by special exercise programs determined by the physiotherapist.
The treatment takes an average of 3-5 weeks. The individual is treated every day. As a result of these treatments, lymphedema is completely cured, partially regressed, or progression can be prevented in the majority of patients. In cases left untreated, lymphedema can cause irreparable complications.
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