CDT is a series of techniques including (1) a form of massage known as manual lymph drainage (MLD), (2) compression bandages/clothing with special padding, (3) exercises to improve the flow of lymph, and (4) skin care of the affected areas.
- Reduce the risk of injury and infection to your head and neck. ...
- Consider wearing a compression garment. ...
- Exercise regularly following the guidelines provided by your CDT therapist to help aid lymph drainage.
How to prevent head and neck lymphedema following cancer treatment?
Prevention and self-management of head and neck lymphedema following cancer treatment. Compression garments should be recommended during the period immediately following head and neck cancer treatment (especially if lymph nodes were removed or irradiated), as well as following cosmetic liposuction of the neck and chin.
Can radiotherapy cause lymphedema?
Radiation therapy can also cause damage to any remaining lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels located in the radiation field, another potential cause of lymphedema. Unfortunately the extensive number of nodes in the head and neck makes radiation induced damage more difficult to avoid.
What increases the risk of lymphedema after neck surgery?
Fundamentally, the risk of lymphedema increases as a function of lymphatic damage. Possibly the best single predictor of likelihood is the number of lymph nodes that were removed during surgery; the more nodes removed, the greater the chance of developing head and neck lymphedema.
How can I get rid of lymphedema due to breast cancer?
A pneumatic pump. A machine inflates a sleeve that you place on your swollen arm or leg, helping lymph fluid flow out. Weight loss. In patients who are overweight, lymphedema related to breast cancer may improve with weight loss. Surgery. If your lymphedema is severe, your doctor may suggest that you get an operation.
How do I reduce swelling in my neck after radiation?
Compression: Compression bands or garments are worn around the chin, face and head to provide gentle support to the soft tissues. The compression lessens swelling and helps the body reabsorb the extra fluid. Exercise: Strengthening of area muscles and increasing range of motion.
Does lymphedema from radiation go away?
Lymphedema can also occur about 4 to 6 weeks after surgery or radiation and then go away over time. The most common type of lymphedema is painless and may slowly develop 18 to 24 months or more after surgery. It does not get better without treatment.
Does lymphedema in the neck ever go away?
Head and neck lymphedema occurs when the body is unable to transport fluid due to damage to the lymphatic system. It happens when scarring from a surgery blocks lymphatic vessels in the neck or the lymphatic system is damaged by radiation therapy. Because the fluid isn't easily moved, it rarely recedes on its own.
How can I reduce the swelling of lymphedema?
Examples include:Exercises. Gentle contraction of the muscles in the arm or leg can help move the excess fluid out of the swollen limb.Manual lymph drainage. ... Compression bandages. ... Compression garments. ... Sequential pneumatic compression.
How do you get rid of fluid in your neck?
Treatments may include: Manual lymphatic drainage, or gentle massage- like treatment for the head and neck area. This moves fluid from damaged areas to healthy areas where the lymph system works well. Compression bandages or garments to help soften hard tissue, reduce swelling and prevent fluid from building up again.
What should you not do with lymphedema?
Avoid trauma or injury to the affected area. Avoid heavy lifting with the affected arm. No new tattoos in the affected area. Do not wear tight clothing, bands, shoes, or jewelry on the affected area.
How do you massage lymphedema in the neck?
Massage down and inwards towards your collarbone. Always keep your fingers above your collarbone. Gently stretch the skin just as far as it naturally goes and release. This massage will look like two “J” strokes facing one another.
Does massage help lymphedema?
Lymphedema causes swelling and raises your risk of infection. It's an unfortunate and uncomfortable outcome of some treatments for cancer and other illnesses. Lymphatic drainage massage is one way to relieve your lymphedema symptoms.
What does lymphedema in the neck feel like?
What are the signs/symptoms? Lymphedema is typically seen as doughy and diffuse swelling of the neck. This may be more pronounced over an incision or in the area under the chin. It can also be seen along the jaw-line, in the cheeks, and even in the eyelids.
Is heat or ice better for lymphedema?
Don't use ice packs on the treated area. Protect your skin with warm clothing in the winter. Get to or stay at a healthy weight. This can help keep lymphedema from getting worse.
What is the best medicine for lymphedema?
The anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen appeared to effectively treat lymphedema symptoms and ease the burden of care, according to study results. “Ketoprofen restores the health and elasticity of the skin. ...
Does drinking lots of 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.
How to treat head and neck lymphedema?
In response, Lewin and her colleagues developed a treatment regimen to manage head and neck lymphedema using a method that combines massage, compression bandaging, skin care techniques and therapeutic exercises.
Why does head and neck lymphedema occur?
Head and neck lymphedema occurs when the body is unable to transport fluid due to damage to the lymphatic system. It happens when scarring from a surgery blocks lymphatic vessels in the neck or the lymphatic system is damaged by radiation therapy. Because the fluid isn't easily moved, it rarely recedes on its own.
Is lymphedema in the head and neck a complication?
While a common complication of some cancer treatments, lymphedema in the head and neck region isn't well understood or managed.
Comments
I had it and many on here. The lymph fluid doesn't drain as it should after radiation. I think you will find mostly all the folks on here had it just eventually go away. When it is bad during and right after treatment you can get lymphedema therapy and do the lymphedema exercises at home.
Lymphedema (?) after radiation.
After suffering thru all the typical side effects of radiation, I had my post treatment PET Scan on December 1 (two weeks ago, today). Yesterday I had the follow up with my radiation oncologist. The good news, the cancer is GONE! However, during the visit with my doctor, she did the normal exam: vitals, listened to my heart and lungs, etc..
What are the symptoms of lymphedema in the neck?
Symptoms of mild to moderate head and neck lymphedema may include: Visible swelling under the chin, in the neck, or in the face including eyes and lips. A feeling of tightness or restricted movement in these areas, including the jaw or shoulders. Symptoms of moderate to severe head and neck lymphedema may include:
What is the gold standard treatment for lymphedema?
The gold standard treatment for lymphedema is complete (or ‘combined’) decongestive therapy (CDT). CDT is provided by certified therapists, and includes manual lymphatic drainage, compression (bandages / garments), exercise program development, and education on skin care and infection precautions. Patient education should also include self-massage guidance, and flare-up prevention practices. Learn more about CDT here . Standard CDT practices may need to be modified to optimally treat this population, in particular compression which can be especially difficult in this region.
How much of the head and neck cancer is lymphedema?
Head and neck cancer makes up only 3-5% of all cancers (ref. 4), but within this population the incidence of head and neck lymphedema is considerable. It is commonly reported that the incidence of head and neck lymphedema following treatment for head and neck cancer is around 50%. This figure appears to be derived from four European studies that suggested between 12 to 54% of patients with head and neck cancer will go on to develop lymphedema as a side effect (ref. 8-11).
What causes secondary lymphedema in the neck?
Secondary lymphedema of the head and neck typically arises as a result of damage to the local lymphatic system during cancer biopsy or treatment (see Fig.1 for an illustration of some of the lymph nodes and vessels of the head and neck). Removal of lymph nodes during cancer biopsy or tumour resection is the primary cause ...
How long does it take for lymphedema to develop?
The primary symptom of head and neck lymphedema is swelling that typically develops 2-6 months after cancer treatment. During the early stages of head and neck lymphedema swelling may be difficult to observe.
What is secondary lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a chronic swelling condition caused by damage to the lymphatic system (“secondary lymphedema) or malformation of the lymphatic system (“primary lymphedema”). Disrupting normal function of the lymphatic system in an area of the body results in insufficient clearance of lymphatic fluid (lymph) from that area.
Where does head and neck lymphedema occur?
Head and neck lymphedema can develop internally in the larynx and pharynx (which constitutes various structures that comprise the mouth and throat), or externally in the neck and face, or a combination of both, depending on which lymphatic channels are obstructed.
What is the lymph system?
The lymph system is made up of lymph nodes and vessels. They run throughout the body to drain extra fluid and return it to the blood near the heart. Lymph nodes filter viruses, dying cells, foreign matter, and bacteria to fight infection. The lymph system also recycles proteins throughout the body.
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a chronic swelling that happens when lymph fluid is not moving well through the lymph system. It starts to build up in the tissues and leads to swelling.
What causes lymphedema in head and neck cancer patients?
If you have head and neck cancer, lymphedema can happen in any part of the head, neck, and face. There are a large number of lymph nodes in these areas. Lymphedema can happen after cancer treatment because parts of the lymph system have been removed or harmed by surgery or radiation.
How is it diagnosed?
The more lymph nodes removed or harmed during treatment, the greater the chance of having lymphedema. It is normal to have swelling during and shortly after treatment that gets better on its own; this is not lymphedema. Your provider will know the difference between normal swelling and lymphedema.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of lymphedema in the head and neck patient vary, depending on where the edema is and how severe it is. Symptoms can include:
How do you know if you have lymphedema?
The symptoms of lymphedema may include—. Your arm, leg, or other part of your body has a little swelling at first, but gets bigger over time. The skin in that area feels tight, and sometimes has a tingling sensation. The arm or leg with lymphedema feels heavy. Clothing and jewelry fit more tightly on the affected area.
What does it feel like to have lymphedema on your arm?
The arm or leg with lymphedema feels heavy . Clothing and jewelry fit more tightly on the affected area. The skin looks thicker or leathery. If you notice any swelling after cancer treatment, talk to your doctor about what is causing it and how best to treat it.
What is the test to see if lymph vessels are blocked?
Lymphoscintigraphy is a test that uses radioactive material to see if the lymph vessels are blocked. Computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can take pictures of the swollen area to find out why the lymph vessels are blocked. This photo shows a person with lymphedema in the left leg.
How does a lymphedema machine work?
A machine inflates a sleeve that you place on your swollen arm or leg, helping lymph fluid flow out. Weight loss. In patients who are overweight, lymphedema related to breast cancer may improve with weight loss. Surgery. If your lymphedema is severe, your doctor may suggest that you get an operation.
How to treat swollen arm?
The goal of treatment is to reduce the swelling or keep it from getting worse, and to relieve symptoms. Your doctor can help you figure out which treatments are best for you. Lymphedema can be treated with—. Exercise. Moving your swollen arm or leg may help the lymph fluid to drain, thus reducing the swelling.
What is lymphedema in the body?
Lymphedema is swelling due to build-up of lymph fluid in the body. Lymph nodes act like a drain in your sink. If the drain is clogged, the fluid cannot drain. It usually happens in the arms or legs, but can occur in other parts of the body.
Can cancer cause lymphedema?
Lymphedema can be caused by cancer or by cancer treatment. Sometimes a cancerous tumor can get big enough to block the lymph system. Surgery to remove cancer may also remove lymph nodes or some of the vessels that carry the lymph fluid. This can cause the fluid to build up in surrounding tissues. Radiation treatment can damage ...
How common is lymphedema in head and neck cancer?
How common is it among head and neck cancer patients? Lymphedema is very common among patients who have undergone head and neck surgery or radiation therapy. Up to 75% of patients will manifest some signs and symptoms of lymphedema after treatment for head and neck cancers.
How to know if you have lymphedema?
Lymphedema can mimic other benign and cancerous conditions of the head and neck and thus it is important that you follow-up regularly with the health care professionals on your head and neck cancer team. A few examples of red flags that should prompt you to contact them between routine visits include: 1 Swelling in the face or neck that is focal rather than spread out evenly 2 Swelling/masses that continue to grow or become painful 3 Swelling/masses that are accompanied by fever or drainage 4 Swelling/masses that are associated with breathing difficulty/voice changes
What is CDT massage?
CDT is a series of techniques including (1) a form of massage known as manual lymph drainage (MLD), (2) compression bandages/clothing with special padding, (3) exercises to improve the flow of lymph, and (4) skin care of the affected areas.
Where is lymphedema seen?
Lymphedema is typically seen as doughy and diffuse swelling of the neck. This may be more pronounced over an incision or in the area under the chin. It can also be seen along the jaw-line, in the cheeks, and even in the eyelids. This is often worse first thing in the morning and after periods of inactivity.
Can CDT be performed at home?
Much of CDT may be performed at home by the patient under the guidance of a lymphedema therapist. 60% of patients with head and neck lymphedema can expect have significant improvement after CDT.
Is lymphedema worse in the morning or evening?
This is often worse first thing in the morning and after periods of inactiv ity. It tends to improve with being upright and mobile. Lymphedema can also occur internally – involving the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. This often occurs at the same time as external swelling, but not always.
Can lymphedema cause fibrosis?
Most patients with head and neck lymphedema will have both internal and external areas involved. Chronic lymphedema can lead to worsening inflammation and permanent fibrosis (scarring) of the tissues – leaving them stiff or even woody in texture.
Part 1. Clinical Characteristics of Head and Neck Lymphedema
Part 2. Prevention and Treatment of Secondary Lymphedema of The Head and Neck
- Prevention and self-management of head and neck lymphedema following cancer treatment
Damage to lymphatic nodes and vessels causes a predisposition to developing lymphedema. However, many individuals with lymphatic damage do not go on to develop lymphedema, and many more develop only mild lymphedema or enjoy many years without occurrence. Prevention …
Comments Or Questions?
- If you have any comments or questions, please feel to share or ask below! As you know, the lymphedema community is small (and the head and neck lymphedema community is obviously even smaller), so sharing your experiences or tips could help others. We have many people visiting this page each day, so your efforts will not go unnoticed. “Sharing is caring” :) Want to know mor…
References
- Gray’s Anatomy illustration: http://www.bartleby.com/107/illus602.html.
- Deng J., Murphy B.A., et al. Impact of secondary lymphedema after head and neck cancer treatment on symptoms, functional status, and quality of life. Head Neck. 2013 Jul; 35(7): 1026-35. http://doi...
- Deng J. Ridner S.H. et al. Assessment of external lymphedema in patients with head and nec…
- Gray’s Anatomy illustration: http://www.bartleby.com/107/illus602.html.
- Deng J., Murphy B.A., et al. Impact of secondary lymphedema after head and neck cancer treatment on symptoms, functional status, and quality of life. Head Neck. 2013 Jul; 35(7): 1026-35. http://doi...
- Deng J. Ridner S.H. et al. Assessment of external lymphedema in patients with head and neck cancer: a comparison of four scales. Oncol Nurs Forum. 2013 Sep: 40(5): 501-6. abstract
- Smith B.G. and Lewin J.S. The role of Lymphedema management in head and neck cancer. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2010 Jun; 18(3): 153-8. link to article
