Treatments for Lymphedema
Treatments for Lymphedema
The list of treatments mentioned in various sources
for Lymphedema
includes the following list.
Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment
or change in treatment plans.
Drugs and Medications used to treat Lymphedema:
Note:You must always seek professional medical advice about any prescription drug, OTC drug, medication, treatment
or change in treatment plans.
Some of the different medications used in the treatment of Lymphedema include:
Latest treatments for Lymphedema:
The following are some of the latest treatments for Lymphedema:
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Lymphadenopathy:
Treatment
(In a Page: Signs and Symptoms)
-
Viral infections require supportive therapy in most cases
-
Bacterial, parasitic, and fungal infections are usually treated with appropriate antibiotics, antiparasitics or antifungals, respectively
-
Offending medication should be removed when possible
-
Malignancies must be identified, staged, and treated as appropriate with chemotherapy, radiation, and/or resection as per the established oncology protocol
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In a Page: Signs and Symptoms, 2004
Periorbital Edema:
Treatment
(In a Page: Signs and Symptoms)
-
Treat underlying cause
-
Lid hygiene and bland antibiotic ointment for blepharitis (e.g., erythromycin ophthalmic ointment)
-
Topical and/or systemic antibiotics for infectious causes
-
For allergic causes, remove the inciting allergen or medication; use oral antihistamines and cool compresses; and consider topical steroids for local process or systemic steroids for systemic processes
-
Cold compresses and chilled, preservative-free artificial tears are generally helpful for allergic or inflammatory conditions
-
Blepharoplasty for herniated orbital fat if interfering with vision or cosmetically indicated
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In a Page: Signs and Symptoms, 2004
Peripheral Edema:
Treatment
(In a Page: Signs and Symptoms)
-
Venous insufficiency: Mild cases should respond to leg elevation, avoidance of standing for prolonged periods, and compression stockings; surgical stripping of varicosities may relieve pain in severe cases
-
Congestive heart failure: Dietary salt restriction, diuretics, digoxin, ACE-inhibitors, β-blockers to improve cardiac
function and control fluid overload
-
Cellulitis: Elevation of extremity, antibiotics to cover skin flora (streptococci, staphylococci)
-
Deep venous thrombosis: Anticoagulation with unfractionated heparin, low molecular weight heparin or warfarin for 3–6 months
-
Cirrhosis: Liver disease is typically progressive; symptoms may respond to diuretics and low salt diet; hepatic bypass procedures (e.g., TIPS) or transplantation may be necessary
-
Nephrotic syndrome: 80% of cases in children are caused by minimal change disease and treated with steroids; adults tend to have progressive illness; dialysis or renal transplant may be necessary
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In a Page: Signs and Symptoms, 2004
Edema:
Treatment
(In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms)
-
Nephrotic syndrome
–Younger children treat with empiric corticosteroid
–Older children or those with atypical features of
MCNS: Renal biopsy with treatment based on results
-
Edema related to chronic renal failure
–Treat with loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
–Other diuretics are ineffective due to renal impairment
-
Severe symptomatic edema
–Treat with IV albumin/furosemide (or other diuretics)
–Use with caution in patients with oliguria or renal insufficiency, because pulmonary edema could result
-
Edema related to liver disease
–Aldosterone inhibitors (spironolactone) may help
-
Sepsis
–Antibiotics/antivirals
–Blood pressure support with IVF and/or pressors
–Additional intensive care support
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Lymphadenopathy:
Treatment
(In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms)
-
Mild adenopathy with associated viral/URI symptoms
–Observation and recheck in 1–2 weeks
–Malignancy-associated adenopathy can sometimes wax
and wane (especially Hodgkin disease) and appear to improve with antibiotics
–TB nodes may be firm, matted, fixed, and nontender
-
Erythematous, warm, tender nodes
–Trial of oral antibiotics for staph/strep
-
Inflamed/fluctuant lesions: Referral for I&D
-
Refer to pediatric hematologist/oncologist
–Nodes that fail to resolve over 6 weeks
–Nodes that increase in size over 2 weeks
–Firm, matted nodes
–Supraclavicular nodes
–Nodes that generalize to two or more noncontiguous
groups or more than two contiguous groups
-
CBC with differential, CXR before biopsy
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Periorbital Edema:
Treatment
(In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms)
-
Periorbital and orbital cellulitis are treated with IV antibiotics
-
Orbital or subperiosteal abscess accompanying orbital cellulitis must be drained operatively
-
Conjunctivitis, sinusitis, and dental abscess can usually be treated with oral antibiotics
-
Mild allergic reactions are treated with antihistamines; more severe reactions may require epinephrine and/or systemic steroids
-
Renal disease should be referred to a nephrologist for evaluation (frequently involving biopsy) and treatment
-
Congestive heart failure is initially treated with diuretics and inotropic agents; pursuit of etiology and definitive treatment usually involves a cardiologist
-
Suspected or discovered malignancies must be immediately referred to an oncologist
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Edema, generalized:
Emergency interventions
(Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition))
Quickly determine the location and severity of edema, including the degree of pitting. (See Edema: Pitting or nonpitting?page 240.) If the patient has severe edema, promptly take his vital signs, and check for jugular vein distention and cyanotic lips. Auscultate the lungs and heart. Be alert for signs of cardiac failure or pulmonary congestion, such as crackles, muffled heart sounds, or a ventricular gallop. Unless the patient is hypotensive, place him in Fowler's position to promote lung expansion. Prepare to administer oxygen and an I.V. diuretic. Have emergency resuscitation equipment nearby.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition), 2006
Edema of the arm:
Emergency interventions
(Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition))
Remove rings, bracelets, and watches from the patient's affected arm. These items may act as a tourniquet. Make sure that the patient's sleeves don't inhibit fluid drainage or blood flow.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition), 2006
Acute pulmonary edema:
Treatment (Tx)
(Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition))
Oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, diuretics, cardiac glycosides, antiarrhythmics, vasodilators, morphine
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), 2005
Pulmonary edema:
Treatment
(Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition))
Treatment measures for pulmonary edema are designed to reduce extravascular fluid, improve gas exchange and myocardial function and, if possible, correct any underlying pathologic conditions.
Administration of high concentrations of oxygen by a cannula, a face mask and, if the patient fails to maintain an acceptable partial pressure of arterial oxygen level, assisted ventilation improves oxygen delivery to the tissues and usually improves acid-base disturbances. Diuretics — furosemide and bumetanide, for example — promote diuresis, which reduces extravascular fluid.
Treatment of heart failure includes angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics, inotropic drugs such as digoxin, antiarrhythmic agents, beta-adrenergic blockers, and human B-type natriuretic peptide. Vasodilator drugs, such as nitroprusside, may be used to reduce preload and afterload in acute episodes of pulmonary edema.
Morphine is used to reduce anxiety and dyspnea as well as dilate the systemic venous bed, promoting blood flow from pulmonary circulation to the periphery.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), 2005
Edema, generalized:
Emergency interventions
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
Quickly determine the location and severity of edema, including the degree of pitting. (See Edema: Pitting or nonpitting? page 292.) If the patient has severe edema, promptly take his vital signs, and check for jugular vein distention and cyanotic lips. Auscultate the lungs and heart. Be alert for signs of heart failure or pulmonary congestion, such as crackles, muffled heart sounds, or ventricular gallop. Unless the patient is hypotensive, place him in Fowler’s position to promote lung expansion. Prepare to administer oxygen and an I.V. diuretic. Have emergency resuscitation equipment nearby.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Edema of the arm:
Emergency interventions
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
Remove rings, bracelets, and watches from the patient’s affected arm because they may act as a tourniquet. Make sure the patient’s sleeves don’t inhibit drainage of fluid or blood flow.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Edema of the face:
Emergency interventions
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
If the patient has facial edema associated with burns or if he reports recent exposure to an allergen, quickly evaluate his respiratory status: Edema may also affect his upper airway, causing a life-threatening obstruction. If you detect audible wheezing, inspiratory stridor, or other signs of respiratory distress, administer epinephrine. For patients in severe distress—with absent breath sounds and cyanosis—tracheal intubation, cricothyroidotomy, or tracheotomy may be required. Always administer oxygen.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Edema of the leg:
Patient counseling
(Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))
Show the patient with leg edema how to apply antiembolism stockings or bandages to promote venous return. Encourage him to perform leg exercises.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006
Pulmonary edema:
Treatment
(Handbook of Diseases)
Treatment of pulmonary edema is designed to reduce extravascular fluid, to improve gas exchange and myocardial function and, if possible, to correct the underlying disorder.
Administration of high concentrations of oxygen (by a cannula, face mask and, if the patient fails to maintain an acceptable partial pressure of arterial oxygen, assisted ventilation) improves oxygen delivery to the tissues and usually improves acid-base disturbances.
Diuretics — furosemide and bumetanide, for example — promote diuresis, which in turn helps to mobilize extravascular fluid.
Treatment of myocardial dysfunction includes a cardiac glycoside or a vasopressor to increase cardiac contractility, antiarrhythmics (particularly when arrhythmias are associated with decreased cardiac output) and, occasionally, arterial vasodilators such as nitroprusside, which decrease peripheral vascular resistance, preload, and afterload.
Other treatment includes morphine to reduce anxiety and dyspnea and to dilate the systemic venous bed, promoting blood flow from the pulmo-nary circulation to the periphery.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Handbook of Diseases, 2003
Edema, generalized:
Nursing considerations
(Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)
Position the patient with his limbs above heart level to promote drainage unless positioning increases respiratory difficulty. Reposition him to avoid pressure ulcers at least every 2 hours. If the patient develops dyspnea, lower his limbs, elevate the head of the bed, and administer oxygen. Massage reddened areas, especially where dependent edema has formed (for example, the back, sacrum, hips, buttocks). Prevent skin breakdown in these areas by placing a pressure mattress, air mattress, or flotation ring on the patient’s bed. Restrict fluids and sodium, and administer a diuretic or I.V. albumin.
Monitor intake and output and daily weight. Also monitor serum electrolyte lev-els — especially sodium and albumin. Prepare the patient for blood and urine tests, X-rays, echocardiography, or an electrocardiogram.
Patient teaching
Teach the patient with known heart failure or renal failure and the patient’s caregivers to watch for edema; explain that it’s an important sign of decompensation that indicates the need for immediate adjustment of therapy. Discuss foods and fluids he should avoid. Provide information related to medications prescribed and the importance of medication, diet, and activity compliance.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007
Edema, facial:
Nursing considerations
(Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)
Administer an analgesic for pain, and apply an antipruritic cream to reduce itching. Unless contraindicated, apply cold compresses to the patient’s eyes to decrease edema and promote comfort. Elevate the head of the bed to help drain the accumulated fluid. Urine and blood tests are commonly ordered to help diagnose the cause of facial edema. Cultures of eye exudate may be ordered.
Patient teaching
Explain the risks of delayed allergy symptoms, and the signs and symptoms the patient or his family should report. Discuss ways to avoid allergens and insect bites or stings. Emphasize the importance of having an anaphylaxis kit available at all times and of wearing a medical identification bracelet.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007
Edema, generalized:
Emergency Actions
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
Quickly determine the location and severity of edema, including the degree of pitting. (See Differentiating between pitting and nonpitting edema, page 245.) If the patient has severe edema, promptly take his vital signs, and check for jugular vein distention and cyanotic lips. Auscultate the lungs and heart. Be alert for signs of heart failure or pulmonary congestion, such as crackles, muffled heart sounds, or ventricular gallop. Unless the patient is hyposensitive, place him in Fowler’s position to promote lung expansion. Prepare to administer oxygen and an I.V. diuretic. Have emergency resuscitation equipment nearby.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Lymphadenopathy:
Patient counseling
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
Explain the importance of avoiding crowds and washing hands properly to prevent infection. Teach the patient the signs and symptoms of infection he needs to report to the health care provider. If isolation is required, explain its purpose and associated interventions to the patient and his family. Encourage the patient to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of rest.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Edema of the arm:
Emergency Actions
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
Remove rings, bracelets, and watches from the patient’s affected arm. These items may act as a tourniquet. Make sure the patient’s sleeves don’t inhibit drainage of fluid or blood flow. If you detect signs of neurovascular compromise, elevate the arm.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Edema of the face:
Emergency Actions
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
If the patient has facial edema associated with burns or if he reports recent exposure to an allergen, quickly evaluate his respiratory status. Edema may also affect his upper airway, causing life-threatening obstruction. If you detect audible wheezing, inspiratory stridor, or other signs of respiratory distress, administer epinephrine. For patients in severe distress — with absent breath sounds and cyanosis — tracheal intubation, cricothyroidotomy, or tracheotomy may be required. Always administer oxygen.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Edema of the leg:
Patient counseling
(Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)
Show the patient with leg edema how to apply antiembolism stockings or bandages to promote venous return. Encourage him to perform leg exercises. Teach him about any dietary or fluid restrictions.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007
Edema, generalized:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Position the patient with his limbs above heart level to promote drainage, if the patient can tolerate it.
▪ Periodically reposition him to avoid pressure ulcers.
▪ If the patient develops dyspnea, lower his limbs, elevate the head of the bed, and administer oxygen.
▪ Prevent skin breakdown by placing a pressure mattress on the patient's bed.
▪ Restrict fluids and sodium, and administer a diuretic.
▪ Monitor the patient's intake and output and daily weight.
▪ Monitor serum electrolyte levels—especially sodium and albumin.
▪ Prepare the patient for blood and urine tests, X-rays, echocardiography, or an electrocardiogram.
Patient teaching
▪ Explain signs and symptoms of edema that the patient should report.
▪ Discuss food or fluid restrictions.
▪ Explain the underlying cause of the patient's edema and its treatment.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Lymphadenopathy:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ If the patient is uncomfortable, provide an antipyretic, tepid sponge bath, or a hypothermia blanket.
▪ Expect to obtain blood for routine blood work, platelet and white blood cell counts, liver and renal function studies, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and blood cultures.
▪ Prepare the patient for other diagnostic tests, such as chest X-ray, computed tomography, liver and spleen scan, lymph node biopsy, or lymphography, to visualize the lymphatic system.
▪ If tests reveal infection, check your facility's policy regarding infection control and isolation precautions.
Patient teaching
▪ Explain to the patient all diagnostic tests or procedures.
▪ Teach the patient ways to prevent infection.
▪ Explain the signs and symptoms of infection the patient should report.
▪ Explain the reasons for any isolation precautions.
▪ Stress the importance of a healthy diet and rest.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Edema of the arm:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Elevate the arm and frequently reposition the patient.
▪ Use bandages and dressings as needed to promote drainage.
▪ Provide meticulous skin care to prevent breakdown and formation of pressure ulcers.
▪ Administer an analgesic and anticoagulant as needed.
Patient teaching
▪ Instruct the patient in postoperative arm care.
▪ Teach the patient arm exercises to prevent lymphedema.
▪ Explain the underlying cause of the patient's arm edema and its treatment.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Edema of the face:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Administer an analgesic for pain.
▪ Unless contraindicated, apply cold compresses to the patient's eyes to decrease edema.
▪ Elevate the head of the bed to help drain the accumulated fluid.
Patient teaching
▪ Explain the risks of delayed allergy symptoms.
▪ Explain which signs and symptoms the patient or family should report.
▪ Emphasize the importance of having an anaphylaxis kit and medical identification bracelet.
▪ Explain to the patient the underlying cause of edema and its treatment.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
Edema of the leg:
Nursing considerations
(Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)
▪ Provide an analgesic and antibiotic as needed.
▪ Prepare the patient for the application of a compression boot (Unna's boot), if indicated, to help reduce edema.
▪ Monitor the patient's intake and output, and check his weight and leg circumference daily to detect any change in the edema.
▪ Prepare the patient for diagnostic tests, such as blood and urine studies and X-rays.
▪ Monitor the affected extremity for skin breakdown.
▪ Elevate the affected extremity.
Patient teaching
▪ Tell the patient avoid prolonged sitting or standing, to elevate his legs as necessary, and not to cross his legs.
▪ Teach the application of antiembolism stockings or bandages.
▪ Instruct the patient in appropriate leg exercises.
▪ Explain food or fluid restrictions.
▪ Explain the underlying cause of the edema and its treatment.
» READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »
Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007
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