Causes, Onset, Progression, and Symptoms ③
Symptomatic Changes in Lymphedema
In the affected limb from lymphedema, it is common to see a gradual increase in volume as the condition worsens. On the other hand, there are many cases where there is almost no difference between the left and right side of the body even when the lymphedema is more than moderate, so it is necessary to pay attention to symptoms other than changes in volume. There is nothing better than being able to detect lymphedema at an early stage, which unfortunately has no obvious symptoms with the onset of lymphedema usually unnoticed.
- Mild stiffness of the affected limb
- Sluggishness and fatigue
- Vague feelings of discomfort
As it progresses to a moderate condition, various subjective symptoms may occur, including the following:
- Heaviness and pain in the affected limb
- Abnormal sensations such as tingling
- Skin tightness
- Flexibility of the wrists and ankles
- Loss of grip strength in the hands
In daily life, the following changes may occur:
- Tighter clothing
- Difficulty wearing rings, watches, and bracelets
- Difficulty wearing shoes
- Difficulty sitting upright
As it progresses to a more severe condition, you will gradually experience more and more difficulties in daily life.
- Inability to make fine movements of the fingers
- Inability to hold chopsticks
- Difficulty climbing stairs
- Difficulty in walking, etc.
In addition, the most important thing to note is that the skin may change coarsely, lymph fluid may drain from the skin, and cellulitis (infection) of the affected limb may become more common.
The changes in symptoms mentioned above as lymphedema progresses should be kept in mind. To prevent further worsening, regular lymphedema examinations and tests are very important, not only for those who have already developed lymphedema and started conservative treatment but also for both those who have not developed lymphedema but are at high risk of developing it due to lymph node dissection during cancer surgery.
林明辰Akitatsu Hayashi
龟田总合医院/龟田京桥诊所
淋巴水肿中心 院长
世界上首次宣布使用超音波与干涉断层扫描（OCT）的尖端淋巴管形成技术。我们专注于使用此技术传播更有效的淋巴水肿手术。
