Lymphedema is a swelling in the extremities caused by a build-up of lymphatic fluid from an impaired lymphatic system. In most lymphedema cases, only a single extremity is affected, but in rare cases, it can affect both limbs.
What Causes Lymphedema
Primary lymphedema is caused by an anatomical abnormality in the lymph vessels and is a rare inherited condition.
Damage to and obstruction of normally functioning lymph vessels and nodes are referred to as secondary lymphedema.
The most common worldwide cause of lymphedema is filariasis, which is a parasite infection. However, in the United States, the most lymphedema cases occur in women after breast cancer surgery and subsequent radiation therapy.
Lymph nodes which have been removed via surgery can bring about lymphedema. Breast cancer may be treated via lymph node removal to prevent the spread of cancer to other areas of the body. Lymph nodes may also be damaged by surgery involving the blood vessels responsible for transporting blood to your limbs.
Infections can also be responsible for lymphedema if the lymph nodes are affected, which is the most common cause for lymphedema in tropical, subtropical, and developing countries.
Symptoms of Lymphedema
Swelling from lymphedema can range from mild and barely noticeable, to significant changes in the size of your limb. Other symptoms you may experience include:
· Fibrosis (hardening and thickening of the skin)
· Feelings of tightness and heaviness
· Inhibited range of motion
· Discomfort from aching
· Susceptibility to infections
Extreme levels of swelling can make it difficult to use the limb normally. Lymphedema, as a symptom of cancer treatment, can sometimes take months or years to manifest after the surgery.
Lymphedema products for Legs
There is no cure for lymphedema, but there are management strategies, including lymphedema products for legs, which can help control the symptoms.
The lymphatic symptom has many similarities with the circulatory system, such as valves to prevent backflow, but there is one key difference; the lymphatic system has no central pump.
Circulation of blood relies on the heart to create pressure differences which ensure it continues to circulate throughout the body. The lymphatic system has no internal pump like the heart to keep fluids moving. Instead, it relies on muscular contractions and gravity to provide the necessary pressure that maintains the flow of lymphatic fluids around the body.
Lymphedema products for legs are designed to aid the muscles. When you move about or engage in light exercise, the added pressure from the leg bandages enhances the work from the muscles.
More resistance is created for the lymph nodes to work against. Their ability to push fluid up the trunk of the leg is improved and provides some relief from the symptoms of lymphedema.
Night-time lymphedema products for legs can help reduce the necessity of nightly bandaging and wrapping. Simplifying the care and treatment of lymphedema can improve sleeping conditions while proving treatment for lymphedema around the clock.
Night-time products for lymphedema can create additional comfort, ease of application, and the ability to sleep in more natural positions.
Lymphedema Leg Kits
Lymphedema leg kits supply everything you need for wrapping your legs. Kits contain an assortment of bandages, gauze, foam, and tape to make it easier for you to manage your lymphedema symptoms.
Lymphedema bandages for the legs need regular cleaning. A lymphedema leg kit can make swapping out and cleaning your bandages easier and more convenient as they keep everything you need neatly contained in one place.
Here’s What To Do Now
Do you need lymphedema garment(s) for your leg(s)? Do you want to make an informed inteligent decision?
Caring Touch Medical will answer all of your questions and help you get properly fitted for the best results.
Click Here to contact us today.
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