Cancer Fighters Thrive is a quarterly print and online magazine bringing readers practical, innovative and inspirational information about cancer treatment and survivorship.
Issue link: http://cancerfightersthrive.epubxp.com/i/259111
20 cancer fighters thrive | spring 2014 cf thrive. com If you have been prescribed treat- ment for cancer that involves radiation or surgery that could affect your lymph nodes, you may be at risk for lymphedema. Lymphedema is a buildup of lymph fuid in the tissues just under the skin, which causes swelling in affected areas. Though this is an unwel- come and bothersome side effect, there is a lot you can do to manage lymphedema; established rehabilitation practices and support from specialists can help con- trol swelling and pain, preserve range of motion and keep you feeling well. What Is Lymphedema? Lymphedema swelling, which often affects the arm or leg, is caused when extra lymph fuid builds up in tissues because lymph vessels are blocked, damaged or removed by surgery. Lymph nodes—part of the lymph system—are small collections of tissue that work as flters for harmful sub- stances and help fght infection. Benita Stevens, an Oncology Reha- bilitation Specialist at Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA) in Phila- delphia, Pennsylvania, and a Certifed Lymphedema Therapist, says that in addi- tion to arms and legs, lymphedema can also affect the chest, breasts and genitals. "It's caused when the lymphatic system is compromised by lymph node removal or radiation near or around lymph nodes [for cancer treatment]," she says. This may cause trauma to the lymph system, which, she explains, "can put a person at risk for lymphedema." Breast cancer patients are a well-known risk group, but anyone who has undergone treatment that affects the lymph nodes might also be at risk. The physical signs of lymphedema can be relatively easy to understand and iden- tify: swelling, pain in the affected areas, a loss of range of motion, and redness or changes to skin texture. You may also feel emotional and psychological symptoms. Stevens says that some of her patients have a negative body image as a result of the swelling and fnd that their clothes no lon- ger ft like they used to. "They report stress around shopping and buying clothes," Stevens says. Lymphedema can also put you at risk for cellulitis, a skin infection. Education First An important step in lymphedema man- agement, says Stevens, is to begin edu- cation as soon as you are prescribed a treatment that might put you at risk. In Certifed therapists, education and smart rehabilitation are keys to lymphedema management. By Mia James Living with Lymphedema Sonia Franklin SURVIVORSHIP cftSp#23vky.indd 20 2/3/14 11:13 PM