States Of Lymphedema?
Stage 0 (Latency Stage) - No measurable difference in limbs. Person reports feeling of “fullness” or at risk limb feeling “different” than before. No outward signs of
lymphedema.
Stage I (Reversible Stage) - Protein rich swelling develops in affected area. It is a ‘pitting’ (indentation producing) edema. The swelling reduces with elevation of the affected limb.
Stage II (Spontaneously Irreversible Stage) -
swelling does not reduce with elevation. Pitting only occurs with strong pressure. There is a development of fibrosis in the tissue. There is more swelling than in Stage I.
Stage III (Lymphostatic Elephantiasis Stage) -
swelling is severe. The skin hardens and papillomas (wart-like growths) develop on the skin. There is a risk of inflammation (erysipelas) and skin is at risk for development of wounds. There is significant swelling in this stage.
Size and severity of lymphedema does not necessarily progress over time. Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) rendered by a trained practitioner will minimize this progression.
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