Lymphedema

The colorless and transparent liquid that provides the fluid environment in the human body and is found in various tissue spaces is called lymph. The lymphatic system circulates this fluid throughout the body through special lymph channels. This system, which works independently of the circulatory system, is generally included in the immune system and collects the waste materials in the tissues and cells and transmits them first to the main lymph channels and then to the veins.

Lymphedema is the abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid in the body as a result of the disruption of the carrier function of the lymphatic system. Although it is most common in the arms and legs, it can also occur on the face, abdomen and genital area. Swelling, heaviness and cosmetic deformation in the affected body part are the most important symptoms. Lymphedema can be congenital or can begin at any age for an unknown reason. In addition, lymphedema may develop after surgical interventions, exposure to radiation, infection or trauma. In some types of cancer, such as breast cancer, removal of the patient's lymph nodes for treatment may impair lymph circulation and cause lymphedema. Radiotherapy applied to these patients also increases the risk even more.

lymphedema treatment

Early diagnosis is of great importance in the treatment of lymphedema. When lymphedema occurs, swelling and deformations occur in the relevant parts of the body. This leads to difficulties in the patient's activities of daily living and significant deterioration in quality of life. However, psychological and social problems such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment problems may occur. If the treatment is not done properly, the arm or leg exposed to lymphedema can easily become infected and lead to conditions that negatively affect the general health of the patient. Therefore, it is very important to start treatment early. With correct and effective treatment, all these problems can be prevented and the patient's quality of life can be improved quickly.

Lymphedema treatment is a complex treatment consisting of several stages.

These;
- Manual lymph drainage
- Hygiene and skin care
- Compression (multi-layer bandaging)
- It's exercise.

Manual lymph drainage is a method of manually manipulating the lymphatic system to provide free circulation of the blocked lymphatic fluid. It includes repetitive special compression and evacuation movements on the lymphatic pathways. It is applied by specialist physiotherapists who have received special training in this regard. Skin care follows lymph drainage.

Compression is the multi-layer bandaging of the affected area with specially manufactured bandages, following lymph drainage. This procedure should be done by expert physiotherapists. At the end of the treatment period, when sufficient effect is achieved and the affected arm or leg becomes close to normal, the treatment is continued by giving compression stockings.

During the treatment, the patient is trained to keep the affected limb in the proper position in daily life and lying down. In addition, to help the fluid drainage of the lymph system, rhythmic active exercises that work some muscles are taught to the patient and they are applied in daily life.

The duration of treatment varies according to the stage of lymphedema and the patient's response to treatment.