SN instructed patient about Lymphedema disease. Lymphedema is the buildup of fluid in soft body tissues when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. When the lymph system is working as it should, lymph flows through the body and is returned to the bloodstream. Other conditions may cause the same symptoms. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur: Swelling of an arm or leg; which may include fingers and toes; a full or heavy feeling in an arm or leg; a tight feeling in the skin. Patient verbalized understanding the teaching.
SN instructed patient and caregiver about Lymphedema disease, also known as lymphatic obstruction. Is a condition of localized fluid retention and tissue swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system, which normally returns interstitial fluid to the thoracic duct and then the bloodstream. The condition can be inherited or can be caused by a birth defect, though it is frequently caused by cancer treatments, and by parasitic infections. Though incurable and progressive, a number of treatments can ameliorate symptoms. Tissues with lymphedema are at high risk of infection. Symptoms may include a feeling of heaviness or fullness, edema and ( occasionally ) aching pain in the affected area. In advanced lymphedema, there may be the presence of skin changes such as discoloration, verrucous ( wart-like ) hyperplasia, hyperkeratosis, and papillomatosis; and eventually deformity ( elephantiasis ). Patient verbalized understanding the teaching.
SN instructed patient and caregiver about Lymphedema disease. Lymphedema may be inherited ( primary ) or caused by injury to the lymphatic vessels ( secondary ). It is most frequently seen after lymph node dissection, surgery and/or radiation therapy, in which damage to the lymphatic system is caused during the treatment of cancer, most notably breast cancer. In many patients with cancer, this condition does not develop until months or even years, after therapy has concluded. Lymphedema may also be associated with accidents or certain diseases or problems that may inhibit the lymphatic system from functioning properly. In tropical areas of the world, a common cause of secondary lymphedema is filariasis, a parasitic infection. It can also be caused by a compromising of the lymphatic system resulting from cellulitis. Patient verbalized understanding the teaching.
