Lymphedema Support Group
Lymphedema is a condition of localized fluid retention caused by a compromised lymphatic system. The lymphatic system (often referred to as the body's "second" circulatory system) collects and filters the interstitial fluid of the body. Lymphedema has been barely recognized as being a serious health problem; however, this is slowly changing due to education and awareness.
In two weeks, I have appointments at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. For a whole week, they will be doing all kinds of tests on me for this lymphedema. Mine is pretty severe on both of my legs. I just wondered if anyone has ever been there and for this problem. Two of my daughters will be going with me. They are also in the medical field. I'm just really really nervous. I've had lymphedema for about ten years and have been to different doctors and physical therapy. I get infections a lot and usually have to be hospitalized for one to three weeks at a time. Depending on how bad the infection is. Just wanted to know if anyone has gone through this., Thanks.
I have congenital lymphedema in my right leg. I am in the middle of recovering from yet another bout of cellulitis - at Christmas of all seasons (off intravenous just a few days ago, and ending with oral antibiotics) - so I understand what you endure.
You are blessed to have daughters walking through this with you. I have one who blesses my life too.
Let me know how it goes. I would love to hear what's new. I am way behind regarding new developments. Recent infections have spurred me on to research - this support group included.
Thank you for listening!
Could you tell me about the new wraps? I think my support stockings may be the root of my current trouble.
Thanks. My name is Kathy.
So glad to meet you!! The new wraps are fitted on you with Velcro and you can adjust them to your leg. I still haven't received the one for my right leg because it had to be custom made. These new wraps have only been on the market for about a year. The kind you have to wrap and wrap around your leg never worked for me. My swellings are so big that nothing would stay. I also use a pump on my leg too.
So sorry to hear about your infection. Last year I spent about three weeks in the hospital. It was scary. I didn't know if they were going to get it under control or not. That was the first time that I was really afraid for my life. But I did the same as you. Came home from that and had to have home health here for a week on iv therapy. Then they put me on antibiotics permanent. I've been on them for over a year now. I haven't been sick like that since. This past year just once . And I had run out of medicine. So back to the hospital for a week. Hope this helps you!!!