Lymphedema Treatment Offered by Vascular Specialists

Lymphedema refers to the chronic swelling that affects the arms or legs. Lymphedema is caused by a blockage in your lymphatic system, responsible for removing harmful bacteria and waste within the circulatory systems. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and as the fluid builds up, the swelling continues. Lymphedema is most commonly caused by the removal of or damage to your lymph nodes as a part of cancer treatment.

Lymphedema can be caused by infection, lymph system blockage, or cancer treatment. Treatment options for lymphedema will depend on the cause of the condition and the extent of the swelling.  Patients may be referred to a physical therapist that specializes in managing lymphedema. A custom treatment plan may include:

• A customized or complete exercise plan
• Use of compression stockings or sleeves
• Limitation on activities that are too vigorous or repetitive
• Decongestive wrapping techniques
• Manual fluid drainage with skin stretching or massage
• Mechanical fluid drainage with pumping device

Patients undergoing cancer treatment are at an increased risk for developing lymphedema. Our doctors at The Vascular Center at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, work with Mercy’s Institute for Cancer Care and Center for Restorative Therapies in treating lymphedema with resulting from various gynecologic, breast, lung, gastrointestinal, head and neck cancers.