Coping with Lymphedema - Softcover

Joan Swirsky; Diane Sackett Nannery

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0895298562 ISBN 13: 9780895298560

Publisher: Avery Publishing Group, 1998

Synopsis

An estimated 100 million people around the world suffer from this lifelong condition, a result of damage to the lymphatic system. It causes extreme swelling of a limb or other part of the body along with pain, immobility, disfigurement, an increased susceptibility to infection, and a variety of other symptoms that make many people feel self-conscious and depressed.

About this title

Review

More than 100 million people around the world suffer from lymphedema, a painful, chronic swelling of the limbs and, sometimes, other areas of the body. At least five percent of women who undergo lymph-node surgery for breast cancer treatment will experience it. Written by a breast cancer survivor and a nurse, Coping with Lymphedema fills a definite need, with facts about diagnostic tests; manual lymph drainage and complete decongestive physiotherapy (CDP); medications, including antibiotics, steroids, and benzopyrones; compression garments; and experimental treatments, including acupuncture, biofeedback, meditation, and herbal medicine.

The authors also debate the merits of various lymphedema therapists, from chiropractors and physiatrists to osteopaths. There's also plenty of information about natural diuretics, important nutrients, helpful exercises for reducing pain and increasing mobility, and methods for handling depression and self-image troubles. More than 100 resources and lists of phone numbers for support groups in most states further the usefulness of this clearly written, comprehensive reference.

From Library Journal

Lymphedema is a chronic disorder of the lymph system causing the naturally occurring lymph fluid to accumulate as "swelling that can make an arm, leg, or other body part as much as two, three, four, or even more times its normal size." It does not discriminate by age or gender and can be congenital or acquired. It can also be a complication in postmastectomy or postlumpectomy cancer patients. Physicians frequently underestimate its occurrence and fail to educate patients in terms of prevention. Many doctors also lack the depth of knowledge needed to prescribe effective therapy. Swirsky, a nurse, and Nannery, a lyphedema patient, have combined their talents to write a much-needed, highly readable, detailed explanation of lymphedema, its complications, and its treatment?including diet, garments, pumps, manual lymph drainage therapy, and exercise. An extensive list of therapeutic resources, support groups, and readings as well as guidelines on choosing a lymphedema therapist are included. Recommended for all public libraries and hospital consumer health collections.?Lisa McCormick, Jewish Hosp. Lib., Cincinnati
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Avery Publishing Group
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 0895298562
• ISBN 13: 9780895298560
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 304