Lümfödeemi

Lümfödeemi is a chronic condition characterized by the swelling of one or more limbs, typically arms or legs, due to a buildup of lymphatic fluid. This occurs when the lymphatic system, which is responsible for draining excess fluid and waste products from tissues, is damaged or blocked. The lymphatic system relies on a network of vessels and nodes to transport lymph, a clear fluid containing white blood cells that help fight infection.

There are two main types of lümfödeemi: primary and secondary. Primary lümfödeemi is a rare inherited condition that results from abnormalities in the lymphatic system from birth. Secondary lümfödeemi is much more common and arises from damage to the lymphatic system later in life. Common causes include surgery (especially cancer surgery involving lymph node removal), radiation therapy, infection, injury, or obesity.

Symptoms of lümfödeemi can range from mild swelling and a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected limb to more severe discomfort, reduced range of motion, and skin changes such as thickening and hardening. The swelling may be intermittent or constant. While there is no cure for lümfödeemi, management strategies focus on reducing swelling, preventing complications, and improving quality of life. These often include compression therapy (bandages or garments), manual lymphatic drainage (a specialized massage technique), exercise, and meticulous skin care to prevent infections. Early diagnosis and consistent management are crucial for effectively controlling the condition.