March is recognised as Lymphoedema Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about a condition that affects individuals worldwide. Lymphoedema is a chronic condition characterised by swelling, tightness, and other symptoms, with secondary lymphoedema often linked to cancer treatments, surgeries, injuries, or infections. Cancer-related lymphoedema is a prevalent form that can significantly impact one’s quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to the National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC 2008), research indicates that approximately 20% of breast, genitourinary, gynaecological, or melanoma survivors may experience secondary lymphoedema. Understanding the causes, appearance, affected areas, treatment options, and the importance of early detection is crucial for effective lymphoedema management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kate Perkins, Cancer Rehab Occupational Therapist (OT) and Lymphoedema Therapist at Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions, states, “Early detection and education is key to empowering individuals with lymphoedema to lead comfortable lives. By leveraging the latest advancements in technology, we can detect subtle changes before visible symptoms appear, enabling timely interventions that can make a significant difference in patients’ outcomes<\/em>.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n Causes of lymphoedema<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Lymphoedema can be primary or secondary. Primary lymphoedema stems from genetic conditions affecting the lymphatic system, while secondary lymphoedema results from damage caused by external factors like cancer treatments, surgeries, injuries, infections, obesity, and certain medical conditions. These factors disrupt the normal flow of lymphatic fluid in the body, leading to swelling in the affected area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What does lymphoedema look like?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Lymphoedema typically presents as swelling in the arms or legs but can affect other areas such as the chest, abdomen, neck, and genitals. Symptoms include swelling, heaviness or tightness, restricted range of motion, recurring infections, skin changes, skin thickening, and scarring. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The importance of early detection<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Early detection is key to implementing preventative strategies for a comfortable life. Advanced SOZO technology at Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions aids in early detection by analysing body composition changes and fluid levels. The system provides an L-Dex (lymphoedema index) score to identify subtle changes indicative of lymphoedema progression before visible symptoms appear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n By capturing L-Dex readings for all patients, Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions is able to tell a story. During periods of hot weather, L-Dex readings for most patients tend to be elevated. In cases where a patient is battling a virus or infection and their lymphatic system is under increased strain, close monitoring of the L-Dex reading is recommended. In cases where there has been a flare-up of symptoms with increased swelling, personalised compression garments can be prescribed. The team will tailor the solution to fit each individual’s unique and evolving circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions patient, Mel Luxford, emphasises the need to normalise discussions about cancer rehabilitation. Mel urges for increased awareness, stating \u201cEveryone stops at the word cancer, but we need to normalise talking about cancer rehabilitation. There tends to be an assumption that once you\u2019ve finished chemo and radiotherapy that you\u2019ll go back to normal. But there’s a whole post-treatment process that\u2019s often overlooked. Surgery for cancer demands rehabilitation just like any other major surgery\u201d.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Can lymphoedema be treated?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Although not curable, lymphoedema can be effectively managed with early diagnosis and treatment from accredited practitioners like Kate Perkins at Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions. Treatment options include OncoLaser\u2122 therapy using MLS\u00ae Laser Therapy, compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage massage, and exercise to reduce swelling and improve quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lymphoedema Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to educate individuals about this condition and emphasise the importance of early detection and proactive management. By raising awareness about lymphoedema’s impact on daily life, individuals can take control of their health and seek support when needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For individuals at risk of developing lymphoedema or seeking support for managing the condition effectively, the team at Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions is dedicated to providing expert care and guidance.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" March is recognised as Lymphoedema Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about a condition that affects individuals worldwide. 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