LYMPHEDEMA [L. lympha, clear spring water + G, a swelling] is defined as “Swelling (especially in subcutaneous tissues) as a result of obstruction of lymphatic vessels or lymph nodes and the accumulation of large amounts of lymph in the affected region." Stedman’s Medical Dictionary,25th Edition.
LYMPHATIC SYSTEM: Consisting of a network of organs, nodes, and ducts, the lymphatic system transports lymph throughout the body. This lymph is a water-like, clear substance of protein and fluid squeezed from the blood. The primary functions of the lymphatic system is to collect and return interstitial fluids such as plasma protein to the blood, helping to maintain bodily fluid balance. Immune cells, lymphocytes, protect the body from viruses, bacteria, and such that invade the body, interacting with the blood circulatory system. Unlike the circulatory system, however, the lymphatic system is called a one-way system which drains fluid from the tissue and returns it to the blood.
Because the lymphatic system is much more complex than this simple description, I recommend that interested persons explore this matter in greater detail.
Lower extremity edema, therefore, is the retention of lymphatic fluid in the leg, causing swelling primarily of the foot and ankle. It is usually confined to one side. In my case, both lower extremities are affected, with the right being more severe than the left.
Lymphedema is either congenital-inherited-called primary, or can be secondary, occurring later in life. I was diagnosed with primary lymphedema in early 1999 following hospitalization when I was found to be diabetic.
According to the experienced diagnosing physician, my case is general, I suppose our mother may have suffered from lymphedema although diagnosed as and treated for varicose veins. She spent a lifetime wrapping her legs for protection against bumps or other injury which would cause severe, deep ulcers to occur. The diagnosis of lymphedema was not given. Had we known about limu moui, the seeweed products, perhaps we would have been blessed with her presence beyond her 52 years.
Lymphedema is either congenital-inherited-called primary, or can be secondary, occurring later in life. I was diagnosed with primary lymphedema in early 1999 following hospitalization when I was found to be diabetic.
According to the experienced diagnosing physician, my case is general, I suppose our mother may have suffered from lymphedema although diagnosed as and treated for varicose veins. She spent a lifetime wrapping her legs for protection against bumps or other injury which would cause severe, deep ulcers to occur. The diagnosis of lymphedema was not given. Had we known about limu moui, the seeweed products, perhaps we would have been blessed with her presence beyond her 52 years.
IN A NUTSHELL: Since posting the above information (taken from medical dictionary and various internet sites), I had a visit from Helen,the woman who is in charge of getting my compression hose. She gave me a brochure from Juzo, the company making the hose. Title "What you should know about Lymphedema." Info therein is more concise than what I posted and cleared up some misconceptions I had,especially about primary and secondary lymphedema:
ReplyDeleteThe Lymphatic System ... consists of lymph vessels located just under the skin, meeting up with lymph nodes located in your neck, armpits, and groin. As the lymph vessels move fluid out of the tissues, waste products, bacteria, dead cells, and large protein molecules are collected ... carried to lymph nodes to be broken down and eliminated, while the protein rich fluid is transported back to the heart to rejoin circulation.
When the lymph vessels are unable to transport lymph fluid back into circulation it accumulates [in my case, in my feet and ankles primarily]resulting in swelling and thickening of the skin. This ... is lymphedema.
- more later -
How Does Lymphedema Develop? Lymphedema most often develops in one arm or leg, but may be present in both arms and both legs. It may also ccur in the hands or feet, and even in the chest, back, neck, face, abdomen, and genitals.
DeletePrimary Lymphedema is caused by malformations of the lymphatic system.... most common in women, present at birth or may develop later. Often during puberty or pregnancy. Primary lymphedema is mos common in the legs, but may also occur in the arms or torso.
Secondary Lymphedema is a result of damage to the lymphatic system ... such as masteactomies, lumphectomies with radiation and/or removal of lymph nodes are most common causes. ... most commonly in arms but may also develop in the legs. Other causes ... traumatic injury, infection, or sever chronic venous insufficiency. (from Juzo pamphlet as above).
Oops - tried to fix the typos in the above post but system would not let me -ccur missing "O" and next to last line "sever" needs an "e'. Don't tell Steve as I fuss at him about typos.
DeleteI learned from the Juzo booklet that I was confused at the issue re primary lymphedema in that this form of lymphyedema is congenital. It was explained to me that we may be born with too many, too few, or even no lymph nodes - this is primary. Secondary is caused by trauma -surgical or damage to the lymphatics.
While researching this I found some pictures on internet that show very gross lymphedema, kind of made me sick to my stomach. Discussed this with my therapist on the phone today and she assured me that my lymphedema is not the aggressive kind and we have been treating it for over 12 years. Whew!
When we come across other testimonies from people who experience favorable results from using Limu, will try to share them here. I know this, that I am going to continue the Limu therapy for my legs, etc, to stay on top of the problem. I will be wearing the recommended pressure hose and stay in contact with my physician about the lymphedema.
Will be posting about venous stasis ulcers, a complication of the lymphedema since my stroke and resulting diminished lower extremity mobility three years ago.