The Lymphatic System

Your lymphatic system is one of the body's most important systems. It is made up of a large network of lymph vessels, lymph nodes, and organs. Your lymph system has two main functions. First, it keeps the fluid levels in your body balanced. Second, it filters out bacteria, abnormal cells, and waste from your tissues.

When the lymphatic system is damaged or blocked, fluid can build up in the tissues. This can lead to a condition called Lymphedema.

Lymphedema is a chronic condition characterized by an abnormal buildup of lymph fluid, resulting in swelling and skin changes in any part of the body.

Causes of Arm Lymphedema

Arm lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system in the arms, axilla, or trunk region is compromised, leading to chronic swelling in the arm and/or hand. The primary cause of arm lymphedema is breast cancer treatment.

Breast cancer treatments that can trigger lymphedema include:

• Breast surgery

• Lymph node removal

• Radiation therapy

These treatments can damage the lymphatic system, overwhelming the remaining healthy pathways and causing fluid buildup in the affected area. Lymphedema may develop immediately after breast cancer treatment or develop months to years later. It's important to note that not all breast cancer patients develop lymphedema, and early detection and treatment can help manage the condition effectively.

Other potential causes of arm lymphedema include:

• Infections

• Inherited conditions affecting lymphatic system development

• Arm or shoulder surgery

• Obesity

• Trauma

What does lymphedema in the arm look like?

The most common sign and symptom of lymphedema within your arm is chronic swelling. Swelling can develop very slowly or suddenly following an incident that overwhelms your lymphatic system.

It is important to remember that in the early stages of lymphedema, you might not see any swelling. However, you may notice other signs and symptoms that suggest lymphedema, including:

• Feeling of heaviness, fullness, tightness in your arm and/or hand

• Decreased movement and/or flexibility of arm and/or hand

• Decreased visibility of your veins, tendons, and wrinkles in your hand

• Clothing feels tighter than usual

• Hardening and/or thickening of your skin on the affected limb

• Indentation of your skin with applied pressure

Lymphedema is a condition that gets worse over time without proper treatment. If you are having any of these issues, please schedule a free consultation call with our Certified Lymphedema Therapist to discuss your concerns.

How is arm lymphedema diagnosed?

Any healthcare professional, including a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, diagnoses lymphedema through a physical examination and a thorough review of your medical history.

No medical imaging or tests are needed to diagnose lymphedema. However, your healthcare provider may recommend certain medical tests, such as an ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan, to rule out other causes of arm swelling.

Treatment for Arm Lymphedema

Arm and hand lymphedema are treated by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) using the gold standard treatment known as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). With CDT, your swelling, pain, and skin changes can all be improved.

Lymphedema treatment consists of 5 essential elements:

• Compression Therapy: Compression therapy is crucial for managing lymphedema as it significantly reduces limb volume and prevents the build up of fluid. Compression therapy may include:

  • Wearing multi-layered compression bandages to significantly reduce your swelling and improve your skin changes.

  • Wearing compression garments, such as a compression arm sleeve and/or glove, to maintain your limb size and control swelling.

  • Wearing nighttime garments for ongoing swelling management.

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage: MLD is a specialized light massage technique, enhancing lymphatic flow and moving lymph fluid out of your swollen area. For the treatment of arm lymphedema, MLD should only be performed by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist.

• Exercises: Exercise plays a vital role in managing lymphedema. It helps improve lymph flow as your muscles contract. Your Certified Lymphedema Therapist will provide you with individualized lymphedema arm exercises to improve your swelling, mobility, and flexibility.

• Skin and Nail Care: One of the biggest concerns with lymphedema is the risk of infection and cellulitis. Thus, having a good skin care routine is essential for preventing lymphedema flare-ups and other complications.

• Education: Education is paramount for long-term management:

  • Focuses on self-care and self-management techniques

  • Includes instruction on self-manual lymphatic drainage

  • Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced diet

Can lymphedema go away by itself?

Lymphedema is a chronic condition that typically does not resolve on its own. While some mild cases may improve with elevation and exercise, most require ongoing management with a Certified Lymphedema Therapist to control lymphedema symptoms and prevent complications. 

Early intervention and consistent treatment are crucial for effectively managing lymphedema and improving your quality of life.