Your donation will help fund awareness initiatives, support groups, and medically necessary compression garments for those who cannot obtain them due to financial hardship or limited insurance coverage.
Lymphedema Complications
While many people think of lymphedema as simply swelling, the condition can affect many aspects of health if left untreated or poorly managed. As Lymphedema progresses, it can lead to a variety of physical and emotional complications. In advanced stages, the condition can become debilitating, significantly impacting mobility, independence, daily activities, and overall quality of life. Early recognition and intervention provide the best opportunity to prevent complications and slow disease progression.
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Recurrent skin infections, including cellulitis
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Delayed wound healing requiring debridement at a wound care center
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Thickening and hardening of the skin and underlying tissues (fibrosis), as well as development of skin folds
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Leakage of lymph fluid through the skin (lymphorrhea) in advanced cases
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Increased risk of fungal skin infections
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Increased swelling and progression of Lymphedema if left untreated
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Pain, discomfort, or a feeling of heaviness in the affected limb
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Decreased range of motion and joint stiffness
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Reduced mobility and difficulty performing daily activities
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Difficulty fitting into clothing and shoes
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Changes in body image and emotional well-being, including anxiety or depression
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Rarely, the development of Lymphangiosarcoma, a rare cancer associated with longstanding, severe Lymphedema
