The phase following an oncology intervention is very delicate. In fact, in addition to having to recover physically and psychologically, the patient must also pay attention to the lymphatic system.
In some surgical operations, in fact, there is a need to intervene in addition to the tumor mass, even with enlarged lymph node emptying.
Lymph nodes, in fact, could spread cancer cells to other parts of the body, putting the patient's health at risk. An example of this type of surgery is mastectomy, which we talked about in the related article dedicated to lymphoedema in the upper limbs, or those affecting the gynecological or urological area.
Lymphoedema in the lower limbs can be of primary or secondary origin, depending on the nature of the disease, whether hereditary or due to external factors.
But when does post-surgical lymphedema occur? What are the treatments for lower limb lymphoedema? How to mitigate the discomfort of lymphoedema in the legs?
Let's find out in this new Solidea.com article.
Leg lymphoedema, how does it manifest?
Leg lymphedema is an accumulation of lymph in the interstitial tissue of the lower limbs. This can occur for two triggers, primary or secondary lymphedema. Primary lymphoedema is genetic in nature. It manifests by inheritance and can occur at any time in the patient's life. Instead, secondary lymphoedema is caused by external events, such as an operation or damage to the lymphatic system.
It is, in fact, essential to inform the patient to pay particular attention to their post-operative symptoms, in the case of an operation of a mainly oncological nature, so as to be able to intervene promptly on lymphoedema. An example may be the removal of lymph nodes due to prostate cancer.
Lymphoedema in the legs occurs with abnormal swelling of the affected part. Usually in the area undergoing the operation to empty the lymph node system, if it is caused by an operation. The spilled fluid, following the malfunction of the lymphatic system, due to a blockage or compression or removal of a part of it, is rich in proteins and over time can solidify, generating painful states or abnormal enlargement.
In 80% of cases, lymphedema affects the lower limbs asymmetrically, that is, with abnormal swelling of only one limb. But the disease can also occur near the genitals, trunk, face and arms.
What are the treatments for lymphoedema of the lower limbs?
Similar to lymphoedema of the upper limbs, lymphoedema of the lower limbs can be alleviated with different types of treatments:
- Manual lymphatic drainage: with massages performed by a doctor, it is possible to stimulate the drainage of accumulated fluids, returning relief to the limb;
- Graduated compression medical devices: the use of socks or other type of graduated compression device stimulates the microcirculation, soothing the sensation of swelling in the legs;
- Surgical intervention: you can resort to surgery, but it is not decisive.
Lymphoedema of the lower limbs and oncology, such as medical devices
Lymphedema in the lower limbs can occur, in equal measure, in both women and men. This is due, in fact, to a blockage of the lymphatic system or a malfunction of the same.
In the case of lymphoedema in the lower limbs, there are many medical devices with graduated compression, able to stimulate microcirculation and consequent reminder to dispose of excess fluids.
In men, in the case of removal of lymph nodes for prostate cancer, there is a specific line designed by Solidea.com for post-operative use. In particular, there are boxers and leggings with a micro-massage and breathable system, subjected to antimicrobial treatment and products with OEKO-TEX certified fabrics. Lymphoedema, in fact, makes the part affected by the disease much more exposed to bacteria and infections. In this case, it is always good to keep the area clean and use breathable fabrics, so as to block the proliferation of any bacteria.
Among the products in the catalogue, there are models for men panty:
- Effect: breathable techno-boxer equipped with a comfortable anatomical shell;
- Contour: medium-long boxers with hygienic opening and shell, always breathable and micromassage;
- Plus: Underpants leggings with ankle length. Comfortable and breathable, with a hygienic opening and shell, they act with their micromassage throughout the length of the leg.
After careful advice from your doctor, you can choose the model that best suits your needs from the Solidea.com catalogue.
