What is and what is it?
Lymphedema is a painful, debilitating and chronic progressive disorder that affects the quality of life of those affected, manifested by swelling of one or more limbs, may include the corresponding quadrant of the chest and other areas (head, neck, breast or genitals).
This swelling results from the accumulation of liquids and proteins in intertisulares spaces due to an altered balance between production and transport lymph fluid. In the present case, lymphedema secondary to cancer (especially breast or uterine cancer), is the result of damage caused by surgery and / or radiotherapy in linfátic0s ducts and / or lymph nodes. This type of lymphedema affects many patients and produces several negative effects on both the physical aspects (heaviness, decreased mobility, dry skin, swelling, decreased strength, pain, discomfort, increased risk of developing infections, especially acute cellulitis and erysipelas, in need often of hospital admission and treatment with prolonged antibiotics) with in psychic (impaired self-image, depression and ansidedad) and social (feeling of powerlessness and helplessness, feelings of stigmatization and confidence in oneself, altered sex, difficulties in activities and everyday tasks …)
Today, the secondary lindefema is not curable, but can be managed effectively if those affected have access to adequate services.
