Lymphedema is abnormal swelling due to the presence of excess lymphatic fluid within the tissues. This swelling occurs when the lymphatic system malfunctions or is damaged. Lymphedema affects an estimated 100 million men, women, and children around the world including at least 3 million Americans.
Lymphedema should not be confused with Lymphomas which are cancers of the lymph system. More on What is Lymphoma?
Lymphedema occurs most commonly in the extremities (arms or legs); however, it can also affect the trunk, breast, abdomen, neck, head, and or genitals.
Lymphoma and its treatments put patients at risk for lymphedema, even after the lymphoma goes into remission. If lymph nodes are surgically removed or scar tissue builds up in lymph vessels and nodes, lymphedema may result. The latest research in August 2005 shows that lymphedema in lymphoma patients can be minimized if the lymphoma is treated in time.
According to journals, the effect of lymphedema and its treatments on quality of life has been studied in other cancer patients, but not extensively in patients with lymphoma to date.
If you would like to learn more about Lymphedema, I highly suggest the following publications:
Living Well With Lymphedema by Ann Ehrlich, Alma Vinjé-Harrewijn, PT, CLT & Elizabeth McMahon, PhD, 2005. - this is the comprehensive resource for those with, or at risk of developing, lymphedema. This easy-to-read, generously illustrated, 280 page book contains the information necessary to understand what is lymphedema, what causes it, how it is treated, self-management steps to control your condition, practical suggestions on how to master the emotional challenges that accompany living with a chronic condition, plus an illustrated guide to understanding the lymphatic system. Available in paperback at 1/3 off from Amazon.
Overcoming the Emotional Challenges of Lymphedema by Elizabeth McMahon, PhD This book will help you: Understand the emotional challenges of lymphedema, overcome these challenges and avoid common pitfalls, recognize problems and know where to go for help. You may communicate effectively with family, friends, coworkers, and health care professionals and set and prioritize your goals Identify where you are in the process of changing. You'll learn the ten signs of good coping and six warning signs of ineffective coping. A comprehensive guide for: People with lymphedema, friends and family, parents of children with lymphedema, and health care professionals.
The Lymphoma Information Network is proud to refer our friends to the premier lymphedema website on the web
LymphNotes.com is a comprehensive resource on the subject. Ann Ehrlich, author of Living Well With Lymphedema along with an impressive team of other professionals has the A to Z on this condition. I recommend their chart comparing lymphoma and lymphedema.
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Resources
LymphNotes.com
MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
Article: Lower risk of fat formation and fibrosis if lymphoma is treated in time, Lakartidningen. 2005 Aug 8-21;102(32-33):2220-5 Abstract
Article: Lymphedema management in patients with lymphoma, Nurs Clin North Am. 2001 Dec;36(4):709-34, vi. Abstract
Other PubMed abstracts for lymphoma & lymphedema
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