|
| |
 |
|
|
Lymphedema of Foot
and Leg
.
Lymphedema may also be caused by chronic infection, usually involving the
legs. Less commonly, lymphedema is primary (i.e., due to the genetic
make-up). Children with primary lymphedema may be born with it (congenital
lymphedema) or it may become evident in their teens (lymphedema praecox) or
in adulthood (lymphedema tarda).
Chronic lymphedema may result in minor swelling and discomfort. Occasionally
it leads to a grave disability and disfigurement. Lymphedema may be
precipitated, or made worse, by a skin infection. Skin infections can be
difficult to treat in someone with pre-existing lymphedema.
|
| |
|
lymphatic fluid that causes swelling in the legs.
Primary lymphedema or congenital lymphedema
may become evident in the teenage years as lymphedema praecox
or in adulthood as lymphedema tarda.
Secondary lymphedema
may be caused by surgery, radiation or trauma.
All types of lymphedema can be unknowingly aggravated
by everyday day events (see the
“Precautions for
Lymphedema Patients”
page in this pamphlet). Skin infections can be
difficult to treat in someone with pre-existing lymphedema.
|
 |
| Lymphedema...
Lymphedema is the accumulation of lymphatic
fluid that causes swelling in the arms and legs.
Edema occurs when venous or lymphatic vessels or both are impaired. When the
impairment is so great that the lymph fluid exceeds the lymphatic transport
capacity, an abnormal amount of protein fluid collects in the tissues of the
extremity.
Untreated, this stagnant, protein rich fluid not only causes tissue channels
to increase in size and number, but also reduces oxygen through the
transport system, interferes with wound healing, and provides a culture
medium for bacteria that can result in various infections.
A chronic inflammatory condition stemming from this accumulation of fluid
eventually results in fibrosis (hardening) of the extremity tissues.
Medicare & Major Insurance Carriers recognize the BioCompression Sequential
Circulator Lymphedema Pump as Safe and Effective for the Treatment of
Lymphedema.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
