health
How to manage lymphoedema without expensive surgery or medication
It was meant to be a simple procedure, but shortly after surgery to remove a bothersome varicose vein, Jacqueline McWatt's legs became hard, swollen and agonisingly painful.
TL;DR
- Lymphoedema is caused by damage or blockage in the lymphatic system, leading to fluid buildup and swelling, typically in arms or legs.
- Triggers for lymphoedema include cancer treatment (surgery, radiotherapy), other surgeries, infections, injuries, obesity, and congenital abnormalities.
- Early symptoms can be subtle, such as heaviness, tightness, or rings/watches feeling tighter, and can progress to firm swelling and skin complications if untreated.
- Management focuses on decongestive lymphatic therapy (DLT), which includes compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage (massage), and regular exercise.
- Weight loss, particularly for obese individuals, and an anti-inflammatory diet may help ease symptoms, though not all patients need to lose weight.
- More radical treatments like lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) surgery and liposuction are options for severe cases, but access can be limited.
- New research into compounds like cyclodextrins shows promise for reducing swelling and repairing lymphatic vessels, though currently only tested in mice.