Lymphedema Management: Taking Control of your Swelling

Lymphedema is a chronic lymphatic disease that results in disfiguring swelling in one or more parts of the body. Lymph is the protein-rich body fluid that accumulates when the lymphatic system for fluid transport is damaged. It can be hereditary (Primary Lymphedema) or it can occur after a surgical procedure, infection, radiation, pregnancy, or other physical trauma (Secondary Lymphedema). 

For people who have lipedema, the swelling is caused by an overgrowth of the fat storage cells (adipocytes) that are normally found in a layer of the skin. These cells grow abnormally in size and number when someone has lipedema. Because body fat has a liquid consistency at normal body temperatures, the fat accumulation can resemble other causes of fluid retention in the tissues. 

 Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the gold standard for lymphedema management. All four components of CDT are essential for the best therapeutic outcomes. Lifelong management of lymphedema with CDT can give you independence, empowerment, and an improved quality of life.