Lymphedema Teaching 1988

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.