What type of doctor should I see for lymphedema?

Since the lymphatic vessels are the third (but lesser-known) component of the circulatory system, patients who need medical care for lymphedema are likely to be referred to vascular specialists, who treat arteries, veins and diseases of the circulatory system.

What can I expect at a lymphedema clinic?

Your therapist should look for changes in the skin and soft tissue of the arm, hand, chest, or other area that’s affected. He or she also should do a manual examination (called palpation) to feel for any signs of fibrosis, or scarring of the soft tissue under the skin.

Does Mayo Clinic treat lymphedema?

Mayo Clinic specialists offer personalized treatment for people with lymphedema. Your care team works together to deliver exactly the care you need.

What is the life expectancy with lymphedema?

When the duration of illness is prolonged, the lymphedema may develop into lymphangiosarcoma. The life expectancy of a patient with this condition is limited to a few months to 2 years [6], [7].

Does walking help lymphedema?

Exercises. Gentle exercises, such as walking, are a great way to help the fluids in your body move a little better. Try to go for a walk every day, if you can.

Does drinking water help lymphedema?

Does drinking water help with lymphedema? Absolutely! Because the body is more prone to hold onto excess liquid when it feels dehydrated, drinking enough water is especially important for those with lymphedema so they can maintain a healthy fluid and chemical balance.

Can you live a full life with lymphedema?

Though lymphedema isn’t generally life-threatening, it’s a life-long condition. Controlling swelling and preventing infection in swollen areas is essential to good health. With the help of lymphedema specialists you can better manage your symptoms.

Will losing weight get rid of lymphedema?

Some studies have shown that losing weight can significantly improve lymphedema symptoms in people who are overweight. Talk to your doctor or lymphedema therapist about creating a diet and safe exercise plan for bringing your weight down to a healthy range.

What is the lifespan of a person with lymphedema?

How is lymphedema treated at IU Health?

IU Health is one of a few health systems offering microsurgery to treat lymphedema. There are three types of surgical treatment for lymphedema: LVA is the least invasive outpatient procedure available for treating lymphedema. LVA bypasses injured lymphatics by connecting lymphatics to veins.

Where can I get help for lymphedema in Chicago?

Lymphedema Clinic Locations: Community Hospital 901 MacArthur Blvd, Munster M-F 8:15am-4:30pm 219-836-4527. St. Catherine Hospital Wound Ostomy Clinic 4321 Fir St, East Chicago T, Th 8:30am-5pm 219-392-7400 Outpatient Rehabilitation of St. Mary Medical Center 320 W. 61st St, Hobart M-Th 8am-6pm, F 8am-5pm 219-947-6580

Is there a Lana certification for lymphedema treatment?

And a Lymphedema Clinic therapist at Community Hospital has advanced level Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) certification to treat swelling conditions in the head, neck and other body areas with standardized methods that are endorsed by the National Lymphedema Network.

Is there a cure or cure for lymphedema?

While lymphedema is incurable, it is treatable. It is even preventable through an innovative plastic microsurgery procedure called LYMPHA. LYMPHA is offered only at a few hospitals in the country, including IU Health. What are Symptoms of Lymphedema?