Lymphedema: Learning More
Finally a Lymphedema Conference organized by the Alberta Lymphedema Association. Dr. Andrea L. Cheville, Associate Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN spoke about the anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology of lymphedema in clear laymen terms. The conference was well attended – over 300 people including doctors, nurses, caregivers, suppliers and most importantly, those with lymphedema.
Lymphedema is not widely known, even among the medical community. It was heartening to see so many interested in learning more about lymphedema. Those with this chronic condition have struggled to be heard – both those with primary lymphedema (genetic) and those with secondary lymphedema (from trauma such as cancer surgery).
The National Lymphedema Network is an excellent resource for information. There are also many books and videos to learn more about lymphedema.
Knowledge is power.
Lymphedema and Cancer
Lymphedema: How to Reduce the Risk (Take Care of Your Arm)
Having just recently been in for tests, it is top of mind to mention the following guidelines. It has been my experience that people believe that time makes everything okay again. Not so. You will always be at risk for lymphedema because your lymph nodes will not grow back. I have know people 15 years from treatment who get lymphedema. Be mindful and pay attention. It is well worth the precaution.
- Do NOT let them take blood from or give injections in your surgery arm.
- Do NOT let them take your blood pressure on your surgery arm.
- Wear gloves when working in the garden or elsewhere to prevent a cut or scratch.
- If you get a cut or scratch on your surgery arm, immediately wash it with water and disinfect. Because you have fewer if any lymph nodes in your underarm, you have a higher risk of infection.
- Be very careful lifting with your surgery arm. The rule of thumb is no more than 15 pounds.
- Be aware of overuse of your surgery arm, especially in the beginning. You will be able to strengthen that arm over time, but will always have to be mindful.
- Carry your purse over your non-surgery shoulder. Even a backpack can create pressure as I’ve found out.
For more information, check out these two books ‘Lymphedema: Understanding and Managing Lymphedema After Cancer Treatment’ and ‘Lymphedema: A Breast Cancer Patient’s Guide to Prevention and Healing’. You can also visit the National Lymphedema Network and their paper on the 18 S teps to Prevention Revised: Lymphedema Risk-Reduction Practises.
Again, it pays to be informed. There still is a void of information in the healthcare profession about lymphedema, even after my treatment 20 years ago. They are busy professionals. Staying on top of all the information out there is challenging. You need to be your own advocate. After all, if you get lymphedema, it will affect your life, not theirs.
NEXT POSTS: What to do if you have lymphedema. Stay tuned.
With hugs,
Barbara
Lymphedema: How to Reduce the Risk (Exercise)
Lymphedema: Exercise and Risk Reduction - The Healthy-Steps Program
One of the best ways to reduce your risk of getting lymphedema is moderate exercise. Many studies have proved exercise to:
- Increase the flow of lymph throughout the body.
- Build self-esteem – who doesn’t feel better when their body is in good shape
- Improve posture – surgery, mastectomies, etc. cause imbalances in the body. Without strengthening and stretching, referred pain can occur.
- Create energy – fatigue is a huge issue throughout the cancer treatment phase and for many months thereafter.
- Combat depression – another key issue. Exercise increases the “good feeling” endorphins – i.e. runners high
- Stretch out scar tissue creating more flexibility.
- Reduce the risk of frozen shoulder, often as a result of radiation and lack of exercise.
- Generally good for overall health, and so much more.
One such program is Healthy-Steps, formerly Focus On Healing: The Lebed Method. Take a moment and watch this video.
- I’ve taught this program as a certified instructor and former trainer for a number of years. Participants absolutely love it. They feel great, have fun, and get results. If you are in an area where this program is taught, I’d advise you to attend. If you are not, the program is available on DVD for home use and a supplement to classes. What a nice gift for someone going through cancer treatment!
Happy exercising – be healthy. Take action today. It’s your life, nobody will care about your life as much as you.
Here’s to you - get out of your chair.
Barbara
Lymphedema: How to Reduce the Risk (Air Travel)
In the last two blogs, I’ve explained what lymphedema is. Obviously it is best to avoid lymphedema rather than get it. Over the next few blogs, I’ll share some ways to reduce your risk of getting lymphedema.
One thing I learned, several years after my treatment, was the risk of getting lymphedema when travelling by air. Fortunately, I didn’t get lymphedema in that time span. As soon as I found out, I immediately took steps to prevent this happening. There is a compression sleeve that you can get which is worn when travelling by air. It is a prevention sleeve rather than a sleeve worn and/or fitted when you have lymphedema. The compression is less but it does keep the lymph in your arm moving properly when the cabin air pressure increases.
This compression sleeve also serves as a reminder to you and others to NOT LIFT heavy luggage. We automatically go to do what comes naturally – heft our bags off the luggage rack. One can do it safely by bearing most of the weight on the non-surgery arm OR we can ask a kind passenger to help us. I have found most people are very obliging if asked nicely. The sleeve serves as a “visible” reminder to others that you do have a credible reason to ask for assistance.
The compression sleeve I like and wear has a built in gauntlet (glove) rather than a sleeve and gauntlet (two pieces). 
You definitely need a guantlet because pressure can build in the arm and move to the hand, so you need the pressure throughout.
In some cases, the compression sleeve can be purchased with a doctors prescription whereby the cost can be partially reimbursed through insurance plans. This varies by province and country but it is well worth investigating.
I hope this helps you. It has been my experience with people in my groups that no one explain this fact to them.
Please come back often as I will share more helpful tips for reducing the risk of lymphedema as well as what you can do if you have lymphedema.
Helpfully yours
Barbara
Lymphedema and Cancer
Lymphedema and Breast Cancer, Post No. 2
Below is an excellent video put out by CancerQuest which explains very clearly the issues around Lymphedema and Breast Cancer surgery. Being informed is your best defense. Understanding how your lymph system works and the impact breast cancer surgery has on its performance will empower you to take seriously the steps to reduce your risk of getting lymphedema. Although lymphedema is not life threatening, it certainly makes a big impact on your quality of life.
There are many books about lymphedema which go into greater detail. One I recommend is ‘Lymphedema: Understanding and Managing Lymphedema After Cancer Treatment’ by the American Cancer Society. I found it easy to read and very informative.
Next Post: Lymphedema: How To Reduce Your Risk
Please send me your comments. Let me know if this information is useful to you.
Barbara
What is Lymphedema?
Being proactive and knowledgeable about lymphedema is key in prevention. That is the goal. Nobody wants lymphedema. For more detailed information, read the following books about Lymphedema.
Over the next few posts, I will be covering some of the issues of lymphedema starting with today – what is lymphedema and how does it relate to cancer.
A more detailed definition of lymphedema, as stated by the National Lymphedema Network, is:
“Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial tissue that causes swelling, most often in the arm(s) and/or leg(s), and occasionally in other parts of the body. Lymphedema can develop when lymphatic vessels are missing or impaired (primary), or when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes removed (secondary).
When the impairment becomes so great that the lymphatic fluid exceeds the lymphatic transport capacity, an abnormal amount of protein-rich fluid collects in the tissues of the affected area. Left untreated, this stagnant, protein-rich fluid not only causes tissue channels to increase in size and number, but also reduces oxygen availability in the transport system, interferes with wound healing, and provides a culture medium for bacteria that can result in lymphangitis (infection).”
Lymphedema can occur in the upper and lower extremities (arms and legs – and even torso). You are at risk if you have had surgery for cancer that involves removal of lymph nodes.
Next Post: Tips to Reduce the Risk of Lymphedema.
Until then,
Barbara
A Starting Point for The Cancer Help Store – What Can We Accomplish Together?
Hello Everyone.
Today is the first entry – a new experience for me. My purpose is to share information on cancer products, services and gifts, listen to your comments and create a space that has meaning and relevance for all those going through the cancer journey, including family, friends and caregivers.
As a cancer survivor (Stage III breast cancer, November 1990), I understand the journey. As a co-founder of Wellspring Calgary, a community cancer support centre, I am in tune with current needs. As an instructor of Healthy-Steps, formerly Focus On Healing Through Movement and Dance: The Lebed Method, I constantly share with participants and hear their stories.
I look forward to hearing your stories. What are your needs? What are you looking for and cannot find? How can I be of service to you? Please visit The Cancer Help Store.
As we journey together, I hope to get to know you.
With hugs and wishes for a great day.
Barbara