LYMPHEDEMA & LIPOEDEMA

In both of the above cases Manual Lymph Drainage massage (MLD) and Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) treatment bring great relief to the patients, physically and psychologically. In most cases it helps in reducing swelling, improving mobility, managing pain and boosting ones self-esteem.

 

Lymphedema

 

Lymphedema is a long term, chronic condition causing swelling in the body’s tissues. It can occur at any age, but usually after puberty and affects both males and females. The main cause of Lymphedema is when the bodies lymphatic system does not work properly, if left untreated it can become progressively worse.

 

Unlike Lipoedema, applying pressure to the affected area with the thumb will result in visible indentation or pitting, in addition swelling can come and go and worsen at various times in the day, for example, it may be worse in the morning and not as bad overnight.

 

Symptoms of Lymphedema include:

• Heavy and aching limbs

• Hindered mobility

• Skin infections occurring repeatedly

• Skin that is hard and tight

• Fluid that can leak through the skin

• Growths on the skin that appear similar to warts

• Folds in the skin

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There are two main types of Lymphedema, Primary Lymphedema and Secondary Lymphedema. Primary Lymphedema is caused as a result of faulty genes that cause problems in the development of the lymphatic system. Whilst this can develop at any age, it is usually seen in infants, adolescents and early adulthood. Secondary Lymphedema  on the other hand, is caused as a result of damage to the bodies lymphatic system, or issues with lymphatic drainage. This type of Lymphedema can be caused by infections, injuries, cancer treatment, inflammation and lack of movement.

 

Whilst both Lipoedema and Lymphedema have different characteristics, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between the two conditions.  High-resolution cutaneous ultrasonography helps health practitioners to differentiate between Lymphedema and Lipoedema. Receiving a reliable diagnosis helps in the treatment of the conditions. 

 

Lipoedema

 

Lipoedema, also known as ‘painful fat syndrome’ is a chronic disease, a long-term condition characterized by an abnormal build up of fat. The underlying development can be as a result of hormonal disorders or hereditary. It is caused by the progressive accumulation of fat in the tissue just below the skin and usually, the affected individual is usually female. In the most common cases, Lipoedema tends to be evident in the lower extremities of the body such as the buttocks, hips and legs although it can occur in the arms occasionally. 

 

From a visual perspective, Lymphedema can be identified by a symmetric enlargement of the limbs.

 

Symptoms of Lymphedema in affected areas include:

• Tenderness of affected area

• Easy bruising

• Pain or aches in affected area

• Visible small broken veins under the skin

• Skin feels soft (rubbery) and cold

 

The skin in patients tends to take on a rubbery texture that can include nodules in later stages. In Lipoedema cases, applying pressure with the thumb doesn’t form an indentation or pitting.

 

Lipoedema can reduce mobility and cause psychological issues, such as, diminished self-esteem. Furthermore, patients with Lipodema may develop fluid retention in their legs and where the build-up of fat effects lymphatic drainage, can lead to Lymphedema.