Lymphedema affects up to 150 million people worldwide, but many people have not heard of this disabling condition, or if they have, they know very little. Juzo is working with several organizations, such as LE&RN, NLN and LTA, that raise awareness, advocate, and educate the public about Lymphedema.
Whether you’re born with Lymphedema (primary) or develop it after cancer or surgery (secondary), a Lymphedema diagnosis can be scary, frustrating and confusing. Juzo wants to help you understand more about the condition and how you can manage it through compression therapy without sacrificing any quality of life.
What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system’s primary role is to absorb and transport molecules that are too large for your veins to collect. At the same time, the lymphatic system helps remove toxins and waste. To do this, fluid called “lymph” moves through your body to lymph nodes. Lymph nodes work like filtration stations to clear out the proteins and blood waste.
How Does It Work?
Normally, the lymphatic system adjusts itself to cope with excess fluid. It does this by regulating two factors called lymphatic load and transport capacity. Lymphatic load describes the cells and water that are pulled into the lymphatic system, and transport capacity is the maximum amount of fluid that can travel through it. In a healthy lymphatic system, the transport capacity is higher than the lymphatic load. If the lymphatic load increases – possibly from a rigorous fever or infection – the transport, capacity can still handle the extra fluid.
What is Lymphatic Failure?
Though a healthy lymphatic system can manage an increase in lymphatic load, damage to the lymphatic system can lower your transport capacity. When this happens, the system can’t transport the lymphatic load effectively and lymphatic fluid accumulates in the interstitial tissue causing swelling, most often in the arms and legs. This condition is Lymphedema – and it can be hereditary or occur after surgery, infection, radiation or other physical trauma. Cancer treatment survivors are susceptible to developing the disease – and the risks are higher for those treated for breast, head or neck cancer.
How Can We Care for Lymphedema?
Once you’ve been diagnosed with Lymphedema, work with a medical professional to create a care plan, which will include Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT covers several methods of Lymphedema management, including compression garments, bandaging, manually draining your lymphatic system, exercise and self-care.
How Does Compression Help with Lymphedema?
Compression provides freedom of motion—and confidence that you can still live a healthy, active life. If not treated or managed properly, Lymphedema can be disabling, which significantly hinders your quality of life. However, the diagnosis doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the things that you love – that’s where compression therapy and Juzo can help!
Compression garments will maintain your limb’s shape while minimizing swelling and helping your system work at its best. When your limb’s swelling is controlled, it supports your venous and lymphatic return, which encourages better circulation – and this means you’ll feel better. At Juzo, we use the highest quality synthetic fiber available in in our garments, and our exclusive FiberSoft® process promotes greater comfort, durability and softness. We offer a wide range of standard, off-the-shelf sizes and even custom garments to fit any size or shape and provide the right level of compression or material for minimal or severe swelling.
Some people think compression garments will call attention to their condition. Others fear that a "boring" beige sleeve will take away from an outfit’s overall look. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Our garments come in many of your favorite colors and styles, so you can find the perfect fit to reflect your style. Check out our print series and try our seasonal colors, too.
A Lymphedema diagnosis is serious – and you have to properly manage your condition. But, you don’t have to compromise your style or limit your activity because of it. That’s the benefit of compression and Juzo. Contact us or click here to locate a Juzo dealer near you who can help you select a garment ideal for you.
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