Edema and Lymphedema

The lymphatic system, as our body's natural cleaners, is responsible for removing these excess fluids and toxins. However, if the lymphatic system isn't working properly, this fluid can become trapped in the body's tissues, causing lymphedema. Lymphedema is a serious health problem that can cause changes in the skin and deeper tissue and even lead to infections such as cellulitis. Lymphedema is more than just subtle changes in the skin and deeper tissues.

If there is a problem with the lymphatic system, the legs and feet will not escape the fate of swelling. The lymphatic system acts like an efficient disposal system, carrying away excess fluid and waste products from the tissues surrounding skin, fat, muscles, and bones. After lymph fluid enters the lymphatic vessels, it flows under our skin and collects all the way to the lymphatic vessels. Proper exercise, especially physical activity, can help lymphatic vessels function better and prevent or reduce swelling. Staying active is indeed an integral part of the treatment process.

What causes it?

There are many causes of lymphedema, and some people may be predisposed to it. However, patients who are overweight, inactive, have venous problems or have had surgery involving the pelvis and lower limbs or cancer radiation therapy are at higher risk. Even some joint surgeries can damage lymphatic vessels, leading to the development of lymphedema. Swelling in the lower legs can also be caused by congestive heart failure on the right side, a condition called cardiogenic edema, which can also cause shortness of breath and weight gain. If you are suffering from these symptoms and are receiving stress treatment, it is important to consider cardiogenic edema. However, if you have heart problems, you may also have other problems, such as lymphedema, which will need to be treated. Diagnosing swelling in the legs and feet is key. If you develop swelling in your legs or feet, you should make an appointment with your GP who will be able to diagnose or rule out problems such as heart problems. Your GP may refer you to a specialist who treats vein problems in the lower limbs or to a lymphedema specialist.

Faced with this situation, how should we respond?

Treatment for leg swelling depends on what's causing the swelling. To reduce swelling in your legs and feet, it's key to maintain as healthy a weight as possible while trying to stay active, such as doing light to moderate exercise, such as swimming or walking for about thirty minutes, at least three times a week. Using pressure therapy is also an effective method. Even if you have limited mobility, there are programs that can help you reduce swelling.

At the same time, avoid standing and sitting for long periods of time, as this will cause the feet and legs to hang down for a long time and slow down blood circulation. Keep your feet and legs as mobile as possible. Try stretching with your heels raised, or perform foot and ankle stretches to help with blood and lymph circulation.

Compression (bandage) treatment:

The key to treatment is to develop a plan that targets the cause of the swelling. If the leg swelling is due to venous insufficiency or lymphedema and there is no problem with the blood supply to the legs or feet, then compression therapy can be effective. Compression therapy works by applying pressure to improve blood supply to the legs, which can be accomplished by wearing bandages or compression stockings. Compression therapy is very effective at reducing swelling and preventing ulcers. Treatment may need to be done by a lymphedema or other specialist, such as a lymphedema therapist or wound therapist.

For more information on Innomed® Medical Bandage First Aid, Refer to the Previous Articles. If you have customized needs, you are welcome to contact us; You Wholeheartedly. At longterm medical, we transform this data by Innovating and Developing Products that Make Life Life easier for those who need loving care.

Editor: kiki Jia

Date: January 22, 2023