Lymphedema: Risks of Not Treating
Some may become overwhelmed by the concept of having to deal with the chronic condition of Lymphedema, especially if they have already gone through so much with cancer treatments. It is a personal choice to manage, or not to manage, any medical condition. The risks of not managing Lymphedema include:
· Continued increasing size of the arm/leg.
· Risk of recurrent infections (Cellulitis) that may require hospitalization on IV antibiotics.
· Skin changes: dry flaking, yellow scaling, wart like growths, lymph blisters…
The earlier you start managing Lymphedema, the easier and quicker it is to get it under control, though at any point in the process CDT can make significant improvements and improve quality of life.
Sonja M. Maul PT, CLT-LANA
National Board Certified Lymphedema Therapist
Filed under: Lymphedema