When the lymphatic system stop working, either because for a congential malfunctioning, or because of a an external intervention, which did lead to lymphatic system damage, the individual may start experiencing symptoms of Lymphoedema. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Fitzroy North, Giovanni understand how challenging lymphoedema can be, which is why he provide expert care through Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT). These non-invasive treatments help manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life. What is Lymphoedema? Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system is blocked or malfunctioning, leading to a buildup of lymphatic fluid. This fluid results in swelling in the affected areas, often in the arms, legs, or other extremities. Lymphoedema can be primary (a hereditary condition) or secondary (often caused by injury, surgery, or infection). The fluid that builds up in the body is a fluid that is naturally produced by the body and is released under the skin and between tissues by the bloodstream. It is reached in protein, bacteria, viruses, dust, and other minor substances that the body is unsure how to handle. Stages of Lymphoedema Lymphoedema progresses in stages, with each stage representing the severity of the condition. Recognizing the symptoms early on can help prevent the condition from advancing, so it’s important to be aware of the subtle changes in your body. Stage 0: Latent or Subclinical Stage In this early stage, there are no visible signs or symptoms of lymphoedema, but the lymphatic system may already be compromised. People in Stage 0 may experience a feeling of heaviness, discomfort, or mild swelling, int the limbs affected by this presentation, but these symptoms typically disappear after resting or with limb elevation. The fluid retention is still minimal and may not be noticed by the individual, but it can be detected through careful assessment. Stage 1: Reversible Stage At this stage, swelling is more noticeable, but the skin is still soft, and the swelling can still decrease with limb elevation and movement. When the swelling is present, the skin will feel puffy or tight, and there may be a sensation of heaviness in the affected area. In this relevant early stage, it i still easy to intervene for prevent further degeneration, and if you are unsure of what you are experiencing, reach out Giovanni for a 15 minutes free consultation, in which, at least thanks to the analysis of your clinical history, we can already evaluate if what you are experiencing is a Stage 1 Lymphoedema. Stage 2: Spontaneously Irreversible Stage In Stage 2, the swelling becomes more persistent and is not fully responsive to movement and limb elevation. The asking of the affected area may begin to feel firmer, and there can be noticeable thickening of the skin. This is the stage where fibrosis (scarring of the tissue) starts to develop, and it’s crucial to stop this from going any worse. While the swelling might fluctuate, it becomes more difficult to manage without intervention. At this point, manual treatments like Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can significantly help reduce swelling and improve the overall function of the lymphatic system. Stage 3: Lymphostatic Elephantiasis The final stage of lymphoedema is characterized by extreme swelling and thickened, hardened skin. The affected area may look large, disfigured, and become painful to the touch. Tissue fibrosis is advanced, and the skin may develop ulcerations or infections due to poor circulation and immune system function. Indeed, along with the swelling and the fibrosis buildup, the outer layer of the skin is placed further away from the blood capillary, which is responsible for releasing oxygen and other substances essential for skin regeneration.Therefore, as the skin breaks open, due to its poor condition, it is more subject to infections and contamination of pathogens. Stage 3 lymphoedema is debilitating and requires ongoing care and treatment to prevent complications and manage symptoms. At this stage, a combination of therapies such as Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) and MLD becomes vital for managing the swelling and restoring lymphatic flow. Common Symptoms of Lymphoedema Lymphoedema symptoms can vary from person to person and depend on the stage of the condition. The common symptoms include: Swelling: The most obvious sign of lymphoedema is swelling in the affected area, typically starting in the arms or legs. The swelling is often gradual and may worsen over the course of the day, especially after prolonged standing or sitting. Tightness or Heaviness: Affected limbs may feel heavy or tight, particularly after physical activity or at the end of the day. This sensation is often worse in the early stages and may become more pronounced as the condition progresses. Pain or Discomfort: Pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the swollen area is common, especially when there is fibrosis (hardening) of the tissues. The pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the stage. Reduced Range of Motion: As the swelling and fibrosis increase, it can lead to a limited range of motion, particularly in the arms and legs. This can impact daily activities and mobility. Skin Changes: In later stages of lymphoedema, the skin may appear thickened or leathery, with a shiny, tight appearance. There may also be visible folds in the skin, particularly around the knees, elbows, or ankles. Frequent Infections: Swollen tissues have a reduced ability to fight off infections, so people with lymphoedema are more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections, which can further complicate the condition. Numbness or Tingling: As the swelling progresses, the nerves in the affected area may be compressed, leading to sensations of tingling, numbness, or even burning. Increased Skin Sensitivity: The skin in the affected area may become more sensitive, prone to rashes, or develop sores due to the increased swelling and poor circulation. Commonly Affected Areas of the Body Lymphoedema can affect different parts of the body, but the most common areas are: Arms: After surgery, particularly mastectomy (breast cancer surgery) that involves the removal of lymph nodes, the arms are a common site for lymphoedema. The swelling […]
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