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June 2, 2004
Cancer Survivors Need Lymphedema Education
The problem is called lymphedema, a painful and debilitating swelling of an arm or leg that can occur months or even years after cancer treatment. In patients whose lymphatic systems have been damaged by radiation or the removal of lymph nodes, even minor overuse of a limb can trigger extreme swelling. Breast-cancer patients, who may have lost a dozen or more lymph nodes as part of their diagnosis and treatment, are particularly susceptible. But patients treated for prostate cancer, gynecological cancers, head and neck cancer, testicular cancer, bladder cancer, colon cancer and melanoma are also at risk.
If not treated swiftly, the condition can be irreversible. But the problem is, many patients don't even know about it.
Ignorance can have serious consequences. Simple acts like carrying a heavy bag, cutting a finger or working too long at the computer can trigger the swelling. The body's normal reaction to exertion or trauma is to increase the rate fluid flows through the affected area. The lymphatic system normally helps transport body fluids, but in someone with a compromised system, that can quickly lead to overload, causing buildup in an arm or leg, depending on where the lymph nodes were removed. The limb can swell far out of proportion to the rest of the body.
When lymphedema is caught early, treatment is relatively effective and the condition can be kept under control with minimal care. A physical therapist, who should have 120 to 140 hours of specialized training, uses a gentle massage that helps the fluid drain away from the painful arm or leg.
Posted by linda at June 2, 2004 8:10 AM
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