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Lymphedema

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Submitted By ManaStar
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Ashley Rodriguez
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is swelling that usually occurs in one or both of your arms or legs. It is caused by a blockage in the lymphatic system which prevents lymph fluid from draining. It cannot be cured, but it can be managed by early diagnosis and taking good care of the limb that is affected. The symptoms are swelling of part or all of your arm or leg, feeling heaviness or tightness, restricted range of motion, aching or discomfort, recurring infections, and fibrosis. The amount of swelling can range from mild to extreme which could make the affected limb harder to move. Lymphedema occurs when lymph vessels are unable to adequately drain lymph fluid. Lymphedema can be either primary or secondary. If it is primary then the disease can occur on its own or if it’s secondary then it’s caused by another disease or condition. Secondary lymphedema is more common than primary lymphedema. Primary lymphedema is inherited and is caused by congenital lymphedema which starts at infancy, lymphedema praecox which occurs around puberty or pregnancy, lymphedema tarda which occurs after the age of 35. The causes of secondary lymphedema are surgery, radiation treatment for cancer, infection, and cancer. You are more at risk for developing lymphedema if you had cancer or cancer treatment, are older, have excess weight, or psoriatic arthritis. Having lymphedema can lead to complications such as infections or lymphangiosarcoma. Doctors usually diagnose you by the obvious signs and symptoms, but if they aren’t they would do a MRI scan, CT scan, Doppler ultrasound, or a lymphoscintigrapy. You can reduce your chances of getting lymphedema by avoiding injury to the affected limb, resting your arm or leg while recovering, keeping the limb elevated, not wearing tight clothing, keeping the limb clean to avoid infection, protect limb from extreme heat or cold, and not

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