Lymphedema Treatment in Phoenix, Arizona
Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymph fluid that results in the swelling of the arm or leg. Lymph is a clear white fluid made of white blood cells that attack bacteria in the blood to help fight infection and is usually filtered through the lymph nodes and into the blood stream. When the lymph nodes are obstructed or overwhelmed the result is swelling and accumulation of lymph.
Western Vascular Institute has been leading the venous specialty field in Phoenix, AZ since 2005. With many years of extensive vascular experience, our board-certified vascular surgeons specialize in diagnosing & treating lymphedema. They will take the time to answer any questions you may have and help discover the best treatment plan for you and your lifestyle. For more information, schedule an appointment with one of our vascular surgeons, at one of our vein and vascular centers in Phoenix, Mesa and Payson, Arizona.
What are the symptoms of lymphedema?
Symptoms vary from person to person, but Mayo Clinic listed several symptoms that a patient with lymphedema may experience:
- Severe swelling in arm or leg
- Heaviness
- Tightness & itching
- Swelling that limits mobility of affected limb
- Skin infections
What are the causes of lymphedema?
Primary Lymphedema: Caused by faulty development of lymph nodes or blood vessels, commonly at birth but may appear later in life.
Secondary Lymphedema: Caused by surgical removal or injury of the lymph nodes or blood vessels, chronic skin infections, problems with blood vessels and obesity.
What are the different stages of Lymphedema?
A western vascular doctor determines the stage of lymphedema by how the swelling has progressed, John Hopkins broke down each stage:
Stage 1: Swelling can be reversed, no permanent damage, swelling relief by compression garments.
Stage 2: Treatment mainly for relief of symptoms, some scarring has occurred in the affected tissues.
Stage 3: Skin thickening and hardening has occurred, treatment mainly consists of reduction and maintenance therapies.
How does Western Vascular Institute treat Lymphedema?
Reduction Therapy: Involves compression wrapping and massage therapy with exercise.
Maintenance Therapy: Use of compression garments as well as pneumatic compression sleeves to move the lymph fluid.
Schedule Your Lymphedema Treatment in Phoenix, AZ
The highly trained vascular surgeons at Western Vascular will help discover the best treatment option for your lymphedema symptoms. For more information, call (480) 668-5000 to schedule an appointment with one of our vascular surgeons, at one of our locations in Phoenix, Mesa and Payson, Arizona.