Lymphedema can be caused by cancer or by cancer treatment. Sometimes a cancerous tumor can get big enough to block the lymph system. Surgery to remove cancer may also remove lymph nodes or some of the vessels that carry the lymph fluid. This can cause the fluid to build up in surrounding tissues.
Compression bandages or garments, such as sleeves, gloves, stockings or tights, fitted over affected limbs act as a counterforce to muscles. This stimulates more effective lymph drainage. The combination of exercise and compression encourages the fluid to move out of the affected limb.
1) Soreness/Stiffness – If you frequently feel sore or stiff, you may have sluggish or congested lymph fluid. You may also have lingering pain or tightness that cannot be explained. 2) Headaches – Inadequate lymphatic and sinus drainage creates inflammation and pressure which causes headaches.
Veggies like broccoli, kale, & spinach are full of chlorophyll, a natural super cleanser, & have properties that stimulate lymph drainage & circulation. Adding chlorophyll drops to your water is a great way to get all the benefits too.
Looking After Your Lymphatic System
Drink plenty of water – Dehydration is one of the most common causes of lymphatic congestion which can further exacerbate existing lymph problems. Drinking sufficient water throughout the day encourages healthy lymphatic function and reduces water retention.
Vitamins that support the lymphatic system include, vitamin A, C, E, and B-6. Common herbs that also help include goldenseal, echinacea, and poke root.
Lack of activity: Your leg muscles pump up lymphatic circulation. If you're not active, you may have swelling in your legs. Tumors: Tumors may block lymphatic drainage. Heart conditions: People who have heart issues, particularly congestive heart failure, may develop lymphedema.
Lymphoedema is the swelling that occurs when the lymph nodes or vessels that make up the lymphatic system become blocked or damaged. This damage or blockage causes a build-up of fluid in the body's soft tissues.
Some foods can exacerbate lymphedema symptoms because of the way they are processed and the additives or high salt content they contain. These foods include added sugars — specifically fructose — refined grains, chemically modified fats and most animal and dairy products.
Magnesium is a really freaking important mineral that is responsible for everything from blood pressure regulation to your heart rhythm. It's also touted as an anti-inflammatory, and can help reduce some of the symptoms associated with an overworked lymphatic system.
Stay Hydrated
After all, lymph fluid is primarily composed of water and must be hydrated to function and flow. Drinking at least 1 litre of warm lemon water in the morning is a great way to get the lymphatic system moving to help expel toxins.
Another way ACV helps to detox the body is by breaking up mucus and cleansing the lymph nodes, which allows for better lymph circulation. When your lymphatic system is healthy, it can remove toxins from cells and improve the immune system response.
Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.
The cycle of lymph drainage varies from person to person. Immediate results are general lightness and deep relaxation. The fluid drainage can occurs 24-48 hours post session. The difference in drainage also varies from person to person, depending on the health of their lymphatic systems.
The lymph relies on the contraction of muscles. This contrac- tion squeezes the lymph up to the thoracic duct so that the lymph can mix with the blood and then be dealt with by organs. Cold showers cause whole-body contraction and this works excellently with the lymph system, squeezing the fluid up through the body.
Ginger Massage Oil is a great natural solution for lymphatic drainage. Extracted from natural ginger ginger oil benefits you by relieving swelling & pain.
Drinking warm water not only helps break down food faster, it also supports the lymphatic system and removal of lymph, which carries with it toxic waste released from cells and tissues, from the digestive tracts.
Eat more fresh oranges, drink lemon water and add kiwi, nectarines, and pomelo to your menu more often if you suffer from poor lymphatic drainage. The astringent properties of citrus fruits make them effective in removing blockages and improving the functioning of the lymph vessels.
To provide your body with Potassium, avoid refined salt (sodium) and consume more Potassium –rich foods such as raw vegetable salads, potatoes (in skin), watermelon and bananas.
Inflammation is by far one of the most outwardly visible symptoms of lymphedema, and there is ample evidence that shows vitamin D deficiency contributes to higher levels of inflammation in the body. Therefore, vitamin D in your system, helps control inflammation.
Your lymphatic system thrives on potassium-rich foods. Dark leafy greens, broccoli, bananas and seafood, like wild salmon, are some excellent choices to consider.
The lymphatic system clears away infection and keeps your body fluids in balance. If it's not working properly, fluid builds in your tissues and causes swelling, called lymphedema. Other lymphatic system problems can include infections, blockage, and cancer.