1. Understanding Lymphedema And
How To Manage Your Symptoms

2. Your body is equipped with a lymph system that
is basically a network of organs, lymph
vessels, nodes and ducts that produce and move
fluids from outlying tissues back to the
bloodstream. Lymphedema is a state where the
body has fluid retention due to the inability of
their lymph system to clear the fluids.
Lymphedema usually occurs in the feet, legs or
arms but may also affect your face or even your
torso. Damaged lymphatic vessels is one cause of
lymphedema along with a condition known as
lymphatic hypoplasia.

3. Another condition that affects the lymph system
is known as lymphangitis which occurs when
bacteria gains access to the lymphatic vessels.
Usually lymphangitis is caused by a strep
bacteria causing erysipelas but sometimes it can
be also staph. This can cause the affected area
to become red and hot. There may even be red
streaks in the skin and as it progresses
lymphadenopathy or swelling of the lymph
glands. If conditions become dire enough it can
even cause the skin to rupture.

4. Primary lymphedema is a rare condition and
considered a genetic disease that is normally
treated by surgical procedures. In the case of
secondary lymphedema there is usually
something that has caused damage to the
lymph vessels or channels such as radiation or
surgical treatments, accidents or other trauma.

5. The first way of treating secondary lymphedema
is called decongestant therapy where the goal is
to mobilize the fluids. This can be done using
several different methods including manual lymph
drainage, compression bandages, exercise and
massage of the affected area and also
intermittent pneumatic compression. Although
there really isn't a way to cure lymphedema, it is
very possible to manage symptoms in a way that
provide reasonable quality of life.

6. The most important first step you can take when
dealing with lymphedema is to educate yourself. What
type of an exercise program should you follow? Is a
relation technique or maybe even yoga something that
you should pursue? It's important to ask your doctor.
There are also nutritional considerations as most in the
medical community agree that Vitamin C, Zinc and High
Bioavailable Protein are all beneficial in dealing with
lymphedema. Most frustration with first time
lymphedema sufferers are caused by the fear of the
unknown, once you have a good understanding of the
disease you will realize that it is quite manageable.

7. If you are an active person who likes to travel you
will also want to experiment with a few of the
compression bandages, socks or garments as
these may be useful when you are away from
home. As with most things, over time you will find
ways to adapt and cope with lymphedema. The
main thing is to have a good understanding of
what helps and have some patience to learn in the
beginning.

8. Resources:
http://www.acols.com
http://ezinearticles.com/?Understanding-Lymphedema-
And-How-To-Manage-Your-Symptoms&id=6369501