Lymphedema affects millions of Americans, causing persistent swelling in limbs and tissues due to compromised lymphatic system function. This chronic condition can significantly impact quality of life, leading to discomfort, limited mobility, and increased risk of infections and wounds.
At AZ Wound & Hyperbaric Medicine, we understand the complex nature of lymphedema and its associated complications. Our wound care specialists provide comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, combining traditional therapeutic approaches with advanced treatment options.
Lymphedema develops when the lymphatic system becomes compromised, often due to surgery, radiation therapy, or cancer treatment – particularly in breast cancer patients where lymph nodes are removed. The condition causes tissue swelling, usually in the extremities, including legs and arms, leaving those affected struggling with their quality of life.
The condition can be either primary (inherited) or secondary (caused by damage to the lymphatic system):
Living with lymphedema presents significant challenges that affect every aspect of daily life. The condition can lead to chronic wounds that resist traditional healing methods while also causing persistent discomfort and restricted mobility. Simple tasks become more demanding as swelling increases, and the constant need for management can be physically and emotionally draining.
If you’ve been living with the condition, then you’ll already know that the impact extends beyond physical symptoms. From vigilant skin care to difficulty in carrying out routine activities and unsightly wounds, living with lymphedema has a significant psychological impact. However, with proper medical support and treatment, you can effectively manage these challenges to maintain quality of life.
Up to 20% of breast cancer survivors develop lymphedema following treatment. However, the condition also affects:
When left untreated, lymphedema can lead to several complications, including but not limited to:
The first sign you might notice is persistent swelling that doesn’t improve with elevation or overnight rest. This swelling typically begins in your extremities – often in the arms or legs – and may progress gradually or appear suddenly. The affected area might feel heavy or tight, especially toward the end of the day.
As lymphedema progresses, you may experience several changes in your skin and surrounding tissues:
Wounds related to lymphedema often display distinct features. While the below list is by no means exhaustive, here are some of the characteristics that usually present with a lymphedema wound:
It’s helpful for you to understand the risk factors that increase your chances of developing lymphedema-related wounds:
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, particularly changes in swelling patterns or new wounds, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve treatment outcomes.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) offers a promising complementary treatment for lymphedema, particularly for those who have developed the condition following cancer treatment.
During treatment, you’ll breathe 100% pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber at 2 to 2.4 times normal atmospheric pressure. This increased pressure allows your blood to carry more oxygen to affected tissues, potentially stimulating healing and reducing swelling.
Research has shown several potential benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for lymphedema patients, particularly for those of you undergoing breast cancer treatment:
Recent studies have demonstrated promising results when combining HBOT with traditional lymphedema treatments. A 2020 study published in Medicine showed significant improvements in patients who received both HBOT and complex decongestive therapy compared to those receiving standard treatment alone.
While there’s unquestionably more research to be done regarding HBOT as a viable treatment for chronic lymphedema wounds, the initial studies have been extremely promising. Other studies have indicated particular benefits concerning the reduction of swelling.
Our HBOT sessions typically involve:
Our team carefully monitors your progress throughout your treatment and adjusts the protocol as needed to ensure optimal results. While HBOT shows promise as a complementary therapy, it works best when combined with traditional lymphedema treatments as part of a comprehensive care plan.
At AZ Wound & Hyperbaric Medicine, we understand that effective lymphedema management requires a multi-faceted treatment strategy. While we specialize in hyperbaric medicine, we offer several other essential treatments and can coordinate additional specialized care through our network of healthcare partners.
We provide multiple forms of compression treatment to manage lymphedema:
We’re huge believers in preventative treatment, which is why we help patients access essential equipment and support:
We work closely with specialists in other fields to ensure you receive comprehensive treatment throughout your journey with us. We work closely with specialists to ensure comprehensive treatment through our healthcare partners for:
If you’re struggling with mobility, we can also help facilitate in-home nursing visits for dressing changes, home delivery of wound care supplies, and family education for ongoing home-based wound care.
Our goal is to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and needs, even if that means combining our direct services with coordinated specialist care to achieve the best possible outcomes.
At AZ Wound & Hyperbaric Medicine, we take a holistic approach that leverages our expertise and state-of-the-art facilities to deliver the best possible healing outcomes. Here is why you should entrust us to heal your lymphedema wounds and prevent complications.
Our specialists excel in treating the challenging wounds that often develop from lymphedema. With years of experience in advanced wound care techniques and hyperbaric medicine, we understand the intricate relationship between lymphatic dysfunction and wound healing. Our team stays current with the latest research and treatment protocols to provide you with the most effective care options.
Our clinics feature advanced monoplace hyperbaric chambers and specialized wound care equipment. Each facility is designed to provide comfortable, efficient treatment while maintaining the highest safety standards. Our modern treatment rooms have everything needed to address complex wounds, from specialized dressing materials to advanced diagnostic tools.
We take a holistic approach to wound healing, understanding that lymphedema-related wounds require more than just basic care. We offer a full spectrum of treatments, from advanced debridement techniques to innovative HBOT. When necessary, we coordinate with other specialists to ensure you receive complete care for both your wounds and underlying lymphedema.
No two patients are ever the same. That’s why we develop individualized treatment plans based on your specific wound characteristics, lifestyle needs, and overall health status. We then regularly adjust these plans based on your progress and response to treatment.
Our wound care specialists bring extensive experience in treating complex cases, particularly those complicated by lymphedema. Our lead physician, Dr. Yadwinder Dillon, has spent 16 years honing his expertise in wound care and hyperbaric medicine and has regularly been ranked as the best doctor in the Valley for wound treatment. Our other esteemed team members are all specially trained in advanced wound care techniques and committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
Lymphedema-related wounds can be challenging to heal and, without proper treatment, may lead to severe complications, including chronic infections and progressive tissue damage. At AZ Wound & Hyperbaric Medicine, we combine advanced therapies with comprehensive wound care to help prevent complications and address both immediate concerns and long-term management.
Advanced Personalized Wound Care Solutions and Wound Experts Serving Metro Phoenix.