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THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM, LYMPHOEDEMA AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO BREAST CANCER

Photo credit: Klose Training

The lymphatic system is one of the organs that is present throughout the human body and consists of lymph vessels, lymph nodes and a number of organs, all of which contain lymphatic tissue.

Lymphoedema is an abnormal accumulation of high protein fluid in the tissues caused by a malfunctioning of the lymphatic system.

Who gets Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema develops when the lymphatic drainage system is damaged, blocked or under-developed, or from trauma (surgery or injury) or cancer in the lymph system.

Causes

  • Surgery (removal of melanoma or lymph nodes due to breast or prostate cancers).
  • Radiation Therapy (this destroys cancer cells, damages lymph nodes and vessels as well as the surrounding healthy tissue.
  • Chronic venous inadequacies (such as varicose veins).
  • Cancer of the lymph system
  • Lack of movement perhaps after suffering a stroke or when pain limits movement.
  • Developmental abnormality of the lymph system (this can be congenital, from birth, or develop later in life and is usually genetic.
  • Infections of the lymph system.
  • Arthritis (the affected joints are inflamed, resulting in swelling).
  • Self induced trauma (for example a tight bandage, tight clothing or a tight blood pressure cuff).
  • Parasites, trauma or burns.

Signs and symptoms of lymphoedema

​The affected area may feel:

  • Uncomfortable, full or heavy
  • Painful
  • Ungainly
  • Numb
  • Pins and needles
  • Warm

The skin may have:

  • A shiny appearance and be red in colour.
  • Hardened or thickened areas
  • Discolouration
  • Pitting oedema:  When pressure applied to the affected area leaves a dent/pit.
  • Swollen limb that may or may not improve with elevation.

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How to avoid developing lymphoedema

  • Heat
    • Avoid hot baths; showers; steam baths; saunas; sunbathing; being too close to a heater or a very hot climate
  • Infection
    • Keep your skin; clean, dry, well hydrated and avoid any injuries to your skin
  • Over exertion
    • Lifting anything heavy
    • Challenging housework
  • Over exercising
    • A physically demanding job
  • Injury
    • Avoid cuts, burns, pricks and insect bites
  • Constriction
    • Do not wear tight clothing ,tight jewellery or blood pressure cuff on the affected limb
  •  Diet
    • Avoid a fatty or salty diet
  • Never have an injection, blood taken, a blood pressure cuff or drip on the affected area.

WE TREAT THESE CONDITIONS