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Therapy & Treatments for Lymphedema in St. Louis

Therapy & Treatments for Lymphedema in St. Louis In St.Louis

Chart showing Lymphatic Drainage System

Understanding Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a condition that occurs when lymphatic fluid, a transparent liquid composed of fat, water, salts, and proteins, begins to pool and accumulate in the arms and the legs. The initial and most predominant symptom indicating the presence of Lymphedema is significant swelling of these extremities. Medical experts point to damaged lymph vessels as the cause behind fluid retention leading to Lymphedema. When lymphatic fluid isn’t able to properly circulate through the human bloodstream via lymph nodes and vessels, retention quickly occurs. Other potential causes for fluid retention are linked to infections, genetics or underlying medical conditions especially cancer and its treatment. Keep reading to learn more about the treatment of Lymphedema in St Louis, below. There are quite a few options for the treatment of lymphedema in St. Louis that may prove effective.


Significant Symptoms Associated with Lymphedema

Individuals suffering with Lymphedema often report experiencing swelling of the limbs which tends to be more significant on one side of the body as compared to the other. Additionally, those struggling with Lymphedema may experience fatigue, heaviness, tightness or lack of flexibility affecting the limbs that are swollen. Inflammation and redness of the arms and legs is a common symptom associated with Lymphedema.


Types of Lymphedema

It is widely understood and accepted that Lymphedema can be an inherited medical condition and as a result, is recognized under three distinct categories. Congenital Lymphedema refers to symptoms that develop in early childhood. Lymphedema Praecox refers to symptom development that occurs during adolescence, while Lymphedema Tarda refers to symptoms that show up in patients later in life. Lymphedema quite commonly develops in patients as a result of a traumatic injury damaging lymphatics. This type of trauma is generally linked to the removal of lymph nodes during surgical procedures related to cancer treatment or radiation. Infection is a secondly factor closely linked to the development of Lymphedema.

lymphedema st louis before and after

Lymphedema Treatment Results in St Louis

Reasons for Seeking Treatment for Lymphedema in St. Louis

Lymphedema is a progressive condition that can quickly transform into a more serious medical issue. The risks of leaving Lymphedema untreated can include a heightened vulnerability to infection leading to lymphangitis and cellulitis. Similarly, Lymphedema can commonly lead to fibrosis, or hardening and scarring of the skin and subcutaneous fat cells. This condition has the potential to impede the overall circulation of lymph fluid causing physical movement to become a painful task. These conditions comprehensively increase the pressure put on veins working to move blood through the body towards the heart.


Diagnosis Prior to Treatment

lymphedema st louisA physician experienced in the signs and symptoms of lymphatic disease will easily be able to diagnose Lymphedema. A physical exam will be carried out and the results compared to the patient’s medical history and profile. A venous doppler ultrasound is commonly utilized to assess the potential for venous insufficiency which can also lead to increased swelling of the limbs. To verify the presence of Lymphedema, a physician may choose to perform a Lymphoscintigraphy. This procedure involves the injection of a radioactive solution into the potentially affected area of the body to decisively map the path of lymphatic fluids in a targeted region. The option for the physician to perform a Lymphangiography involves the replacement of the radioactive solution with a medicinal dye.

Lymphedema St Louis Treatment Options

While there is no permanent cure for Lymphedema, complications and progression of the disease can be managed effectively with a combination of Lymphedema treatment St Louis options. Compression garments are the primary method recommended for managing Lymphedema. Compression stockings, sleeves, leggings and gauntlets provide a first line of defense when it comes to promoting healthy blood circulation. Manual lymphatic drainage or massage can aid in the management of Lymphedema as well. This technique works to manually move the lymph out of congested areas. When this type of massage is combined with compression bandages the treatment method may be referred to as Complete Decongestive Therapy.

For patients with more severe cases of Lymphedema, intermittent compression pump lymphedema therapy may prove effective. These compression pumps actively work to move trapped lymphatic fluid through the lymphatic circulatory system.


Recommended Home Care Strategies

Patients suffering from Lymphedema are at a greater risk of developing infections and there are some simple home care strategies that help diminish the overall risk factor. Those suffering with Lymphedema should always completely dry affected limbs after showering or swimming. Wearing protective shoes and clothing reduces the risk of cuts or injuries while the addition of compression garments is highly recommended in the promotion of healthy blood circulation. Sitting with the legs uncrossed is another simple strategy towards promoting improved lymphatic flow. Maintaining a dedicated exercise routine along with a healthy diet has been shown to help reduce the risk of injury or infection related to Lymphedema.


Underlying Vein Conditions

Swelling of the arms and legs is generally a first symptom of Lymphedema but can also be linked to underlying venous insufficiency. When this is the case, seeking vein treatment options can significantly improve symptoms associated with Lymphedema. Dr. Wright and his team at the St. Louis Laser Lipo and Vein Center provide comprehensive therapy plans for Lymphedema in St. Louis that take a patient’s full medical profile into consideration. When you’re looking for solutions to treat symptoms of Lymphedema or underlying vein disease, make sure to contact us to set up an initial consultation.
lymphedema st louis

FAQ’s

What triggers lymphedema?

Answer: Damage to or removal of the lymph nodes in your body are the most common causes of lymphedema. In both instances, your lymphatic system is blocked and prevents lymph fluid from draining.

What foods should I avoid with lymphedema?

Answer: Anything with added sugars, refined grains, and chemically modified fats. It’s also recommended to avoid dairy products and high-salt foods.