Lymphedema: The Frequently Asked Questions     p.2

What symptoms should I watch for?

Patients often complain about swelling in the extremity, “heaviness,” or loss of function.  Others have noticed pain and reduced grip strength.  If the problem is recognized and treatment begins early, the likelihood for improving the condition is much greater than if the condition is allowed to progress.  When untreated, the limb may become more swollen.  The skin may harden and lose its elasticity.  Untreated lymphedema might lead to breaks in the skin’s protective barrier, causing exposure to infection and potentially irreversible complications.

Will I get it right away?

Unfortunately, lymphedema can develop within days or over decades.  With proper care, lymphedema can be managed, especially if it is treated as soon as symptoms are recognized.

If left untreated, what happens?

As lymphedema progresses, the arm becomes firm.  It may double or even triple in size.    There may be pain and loss of strength and sensation in the arm. You may have difficulty moving your arm and you are at a higher risk for getting infections. You may fatigue more quickly and have difficulty managing your activities of daily living.  The swollen arm may affect your self image and give you emotional distress.  Because it is difficult to buy clothing that fits, you may have a decreased concern for your appearance.  In some instances, lymphedema can leave its mark on your social and sexual relationships because you just don’t feel as attractive as you used to be.  Lymphedema can change your occupational aspirations and compromise your quality of life.

Where do I go for therapy?

HCA.Cancer Care, an affiliate of HCA The Healthcare Company has developed a lymphedema service where physical and occupational therapists have been trained to treat lymphedema. As with most healthcare procedures, a prescription from your physician is required. Contact the rehabilitation department at your local hospital and ask for a physical or occupational therapist who has been trained in the treatment of lymphedema.

What tests are done to evaluate lymphedema?

Therapy for lymphedema begins with a clinical evaluation by a specialist trained specifically in the treatment of lymphedema.  This evaluation will include a complete medical history.  It is always important for the therapist to know your previous medical treatment, especially if you have had congestive heart failure, a deep vein thrombosis, or acute infections. The therapist should take measurements of both of your arms and test your range of motion, pain, muscle tone, and grip strength. It is also important to know the impact that the swelling has had on your life.  What functional limitations are you experiencing?  Do you have trouble completing simple activities of daily living?  Is the swelling influencing the quality of your life?

In some rare instances, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has been used in the diagnosis of lymphedema. This procedure should only be used in conjunction with a good clinical evaluation.

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