Lymphedema of lower extremities

Lymphedema is a disease characterized by impaired functioning of the lymphatic system and, as a result, the appearance of a strong puffiness. Most often, this disease affects the legs. In this case, lymphedema of the lower extremities can be both congenital and acquired.

Congenital lymphedema

Congenital lymphedema is a consequence of pathological changes during the formation of the lymphatic system (aplasia, agenesis, hypoplasia, etc.). As a rule, the main contingent of the disease is women (more than 85%). Congenital lymphedema can also appear during life, after an event, such as pregnancy or a limb injury. The main sign of this disease is the presence of bilateral edema.

Acquired lymphedema

The appearance of acquired or secondary lymphedema of the lower extremities can cause a disease affecting the lymphatic system. In most cases, the cause of secondary lymphedema of the lower limbs are the consequences:

• carrying out of treatment of oncological diseases;
• surgical interventions;
• injuries on the legs;
• erysipelas .

Acquired lymphedema, in general, is one-sided, which distinguishes it from the late appearance of congenital disease. This disease affects equally both men and women over the age of 40.

Symptoms of lymphedema

With lymphedema of the extremities at the beginning of the disease, there is a constant sensation of heaviness and raspiraniya in the legs. Edema is pronounced in the ankles and in the second and third parts of the shin. Legs above the knee are rarely affected and therefore, over time, the volume of the foot along the entire length is almost compared, which makes it look like an elephant. The skin has a pale shade. At the rear of the foot, there is an edema that looks like a pillow. A distinctive feature is that the skin under the second toe becomes impossible to gather into the fold. This is a sign of Stemmer. Edema in the early stages of mild, with time causes compaction of tissues. Lymphedema of the legs is chronic. Once it appears, it accompanies a person to the end of life.

Treatment of lymphedema

Treatment of lymphodemia of the lower limbs is a lifelong application of conservative drugs that stimulate the lymphatic system and facilitate the course of the disease. It:

• physiotherapy;
• compression therapy;
• manual lymph drainage massage .

Also, medicinal products with lymphotensive action can be recommended:

• Detraleks;
• Solcoseryl.

With the development of elephantiasis, resection operative interventions can be applied.