Lymphedema is swelling caused by the abnormal accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the skin. Lymphedema can be caused by burns, injury, surgery, radiation therapy, obesity, or circulatory problems. Many breast- and prostate-cancer survivors have, or risk developing, lymphedema. There is also an inherited form. If not treated, lymphedema can be painful and lead to life-threatening infections. This book will help you live well with lymphedema through treatment, self-management, and helpful tips for daily living. It will also help you understand how the lymphatic system works, how lymphedema is diagnosed, how to cope with the emotional challenges of lymphedema, how to find treatment, and deal with insurance issues. Living Well is for those with, or at risk for, lymphedema as well as healthcare professionals, caregivers, and friends and family.
Living Well With Lymphedema is the comprehensive resource for those with, or at risk of developing, lymphedema. This easy-to-read, generously illustrated, 280 page book contains the information necessary to understand what is lymphedema, what causes it, how it is treated, self-management steps to control your condition, practical suggestions on how to master the emotional challenges that accompany living with a chronic condition, plus an illustrated guide to understanding the lymphatic system.
LymphNotes.com, the highly respected lymphedema oriented website, provides insights into the needs and interests of hundreds of individuals with, at risk of, or caring for someone with lymphedema.
Ann Ehrlich is a professional medical writer who also has secondary lymphedema following breast cancer treatment. Ann brings to this book her personal "need to know" on living well with lymphedema.
Alma Vinjé-Harrewijn is a licensed physiotherapist with more than 15 years of experience and postgraduate training in manual lymph drainage using the techniques of Vodder, Földi, Chikly, and others. Alma brings to this book many practical techniques, especially for self care, based on her years of experience helping people live well with lymphedema. She is a member of the International Society of Lymphology and the NVFL (the Dutch association for Physical Therapy specialists in Lymphology) and writes a regular column for Oedeminus, the NVFL journal.
Elizabeth McMahon, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who brings to this book over 25 years of experience helping patients, many of whom have chronic medical conditions. Elizabeth shares her expertise in helping these individuals learn new skills for managing anxiety, depression, and other emotional issues that can be part of living well with a chronic condition like lymphedema.
