Lymphatic System
Edema
The lymphatic system is a circulatory and drainage system that defends you against disease, removes waste and toxins and maintains fluid balance. Your lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels are a part of this system and this is why cancer can show up in these nodes if they are located near an affected organ or site. The lymph system is passive and relies on muscle movement to move fluids back through to the blood vessels to be processed through the kidneys and liver.
Some treatments can trigger edema, which can more likely occur in your extremities (legs, ankles, feet) but can also appear in your face or throughout your body. Edema is more likely to occur with certain treatment regimens than others. Staying hydrated helps clear excess fluids and stimulates the lymphatic system. Symptoms often wax and wane.
Recommendations
Wear compression stockings. Check them periodically so they do not bunch up or roll and constrict around ankles or below your knees
Elevate your legs to encourage lymphatic drainage.
Walk and/or exercise as the movement helps to pump the fluid in your legs, ankles et al to be processed back up through your lymph system and later through your kidneys. Exercise stimulates the lymphatic system.
Avoid salty foods to help avoid fluid retention.
Stay hydrated. Increase your intake of fluids, ideally water, to help flush your system. Avoid caffeine.
Take care of your feet and be aware of and care for sores or blisters. Avoid using shoes that may be too high or tight.
Lymphatic Congestion
Lymphatic congestion can sometimes happen after surgery, the lymphatic vessels can be traumatized , inflamed and or are burdened with excess fluid and waste traveling from repairing tissues. Sometimes the lymph nodes and or vessels get congested, build up a bit and skin can feel rather hard, squishy to the touch, tight and or feel a bit warm. Always ask your Physician, Surgeon for guidance before undertaking such therapeutic massage.
Recommendations
Lymphatic Massage may help move the fluid through the lymphatic vessel system to be later cleared by the kidneys. Several lymphatic massage sessions may help and should help reduce the hardness to touch, swelling and help the lymphatic system get back to its normal functioning.
Learn where the lymphatic drainage vessel pathways near the surgery site and gently massage towards those lymphatic vessel drainage areas. As a general rule, gently and slowly massage toward the sides and down (or up) toward the trunk of your body.
NOTE: You may not be able to undertake lymphatic massage for a period of time after your surgery. It may require a wait of several weeks or longer. Ask your physician for guidance when you can safely undertake such support.