Lymphedema is swelling in one or more extremities due to impaired lymphatic system flow. The swelling can be mild or severe and can be a birth abnormality or the result of damage to the lymphatic system. Along with the swelling, there can be pain, numbness, tightness, and infection. In some instances, lymphedema can cause lymphangitis and skin infections. Lymphatic edema is of two types – primary and secondary. A range of lymphedema products exists to control this condition effectively and safely. These products can effectively manage edema, lymphatic edema, and venous insufficiency.

Types of Lymphedema

Primary Lymphedema

Primary lymphoedema is from birth and can affect any part of the body. It is an inherited condition but rare.

Secondary Lymphedema

Secondary lymphoedema occurs at a later stage in life and is a result of certain factors that damage the lymphatic system. This leads to lymphatic system dysfunction and obstruction of lymph vessels and nodes. It can also occur when the lymph vessels or lymph nodes have been taken out or damaged during surgery. Secondary lymphedema is common after breast cancer treatment, including surgery, radiation, or trauma.

What are the Symptoms of Lymphedema?

Early signs of lymphedema before swelling sets in are:

Heaviness and tightness
Numbness
Difficulty wearing jewelry or watches
Difficulty fitting into clothes or shoes
Swelling in the neck or head
Limited range of motion of limbs
Tingling sensation
Recurring skin infections
The asymmetrical appearance of the limbs
Reduced flexibility of joints
The swelling may be accompanied by fever and chills, burning pain, warmth, redness, itching, and skin rash.

Treatment options for Lymphedema

While lymphatic edema does not have a cure, it can be controlled. Swelling can be brought down and discomfort reduced. Treatment options to control lymphatic edema include compression, exercise, and surgery to remove excess fluid and tissue. Skincare is also vital to reducing the risks of skin infections. Infections should be treated with appropriate drugs to prevent their spread to the bloodstream.
Lymphedema compression garments use gradient pressure to regulate the flow of lymph fluid from the extremities into the torso. These lymphedema garments are designed to help reduce swelling.
Remedial exercises target the swollen limbs and encourage the flow of lymph fluid out of the limb. The doctor may advise light exercises that contract and stimulate muscles in the limbs. This will help encourage lymph fluid flow.
Lymph drainage can also be achieved through therapeutic massage.

Lymphedema Products

Compression is the most common treatment option. It involves the use of lymphedema compression garments, like socks, stockings, gloves, gauntlets, and medical compression sleeves. These lymphedema supplies are designed to provide gradual compression from the end of the extremity towards the trunk, but they must have the right fit to be effective. Used with a pump, these lymphedema products encourage the formation of lymphatic tissue fluid channels and reduce painful swelling.

1. Lymphedema Compression Garments

Compression sleeves for lymphedema provide a balanced yet gentle compression to the arm, massaging the skin and minor lymph vessels to activate lymph drainage. They are designed to prevent hand, palm, or wrist swelling.

2. Lymphedema Bandages

Compression bandages for lymphedema support the muscles and encourage the movement of fluid out of the swollen body part. They are wrapped tightly towards the extremity's end and less tight towards the trunk. This helps fluid flow upwards from the extremity towards the body's center. These bandages for lymphatic edema are designed with both comfort and support in mind.

3. Lymphedema Pads

Lymphedema pads have continuous channeling to direct lymph flow to the inguinal collection area. There are fossa pads for the delicate popliteal fossa area, malleolus pad that fills the anatomical indentation around the malleolus, anterior pads for mastectomy and lumpectomy care, and male/female genital pads for scrotal or labial swelling and/or fibrosis. Also available are palm pads, which help maintain proper functional arches of the hand under bandage pressure.

At Health Products For You, you will find lymphedema products from leading brands and manufacturers like Chattanooga, Jovipak, Lymphedivas, Julius Zorn, BSN, and Patterson. Also available are multi-chamber lymphedema pumps, half and full-length garments for legs and arms, and various accessories.