Lymphedema

persistent/chronic swelling of the affected area feeling heavy, tight and/or prickly
 * Lymphedema **
 * Pathophysiology ** : Swelling of the lymphatic passages due to a blockage caused by infection, injury, radiation, cellulitis, surgery or tumors resulting in the inability of lymph fluid to pass and flow freely. This is often seen in patients with breast cancer who have undergone a mastectomy. This condition does not resolve by itself and may become worse if left untreated.
 * Signs and Symptoms ** :

**Labs/Diagnostics**: CT MRI Lymphangiography (x-ray of lymph nodes and lymph vessels)

Lymphoscintigraphy (radioactive substance that flows through the lymph ducts to the lymph nodes. It is used to check for tumor cells.

compression with bandages manual lymph drainage (MLD) (Light massage therapy performed in a systematic direction to assist in draining lymphatic fluid) range of motion exercises surgery (certain cases only, limited success, does not cure)
 * Treatments/Medications ** :

Liposuction Removal of abnormal lymphatic tissue transplant of normal lymphatic tissue
 * Surgical Options ** :

prevent injury prevent infection prevent skin breakdown (provide good skin care and hygiene) perform light exercise and range of motion exercises (under supervision of physical therapist) wear compression stockings Pneumatic compression pump
 * Prevention ** :

keep effected extremity elevated give medications as ordered address patients anxiety and answer questions they may have educate on importance of follow-up appointments patient teaching addressing teaching plan
 * Nursing Interventions ** :

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