Lymphoedema is condition of localized fluid retention and tissue swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system. There are two main types of lymphoedema: inherited or primary lymphoedema, which is caused by a deterioration of the lymphatic vessels and secondary lymphoedema, which occurs when the lymphatic system becomes impaired following surgery, an infection or a severe injury. Primary lymphoedema is a congenital disorder that can affect children as young as two years old or women that are over 35 years old.
As for secondary lymphoedema, the collection of pus is often linked to trauma resulting from an accident or radiation therapy. Surgery may also be a cause of lymphoedema. The main surgical procedures that can be responsible include stripping, peripheral vascular surgery, and lipectomy.
Secondary lymphoedema in the upper limb is located in the axillary crease. It is a form of complication of breast cancer. Other causes of lymphoedema include burns, compression of lymph nodes or radiation.
Lymphoedema is characterized by swelling in the legs and arms accompanied by pain. Initially, the subject experiences a sensation of limb asymmetry and has a hard time putting on his or her clothes. Other body parts such as the neck or abdomen may also be affected. The patient complains of severe fatigue, before the affected area undergoes skin discolouration. Sometimes it is also possible to observe a deformation such as elephantiasis.
Over the long-term, lymphoedema causes tissue inflammation and a thickening of the affected area, which subsequently takes on the appearance of orange peel. It is also possible for a patient to be subject to the development of bacterial or fungal infections. The direct consequences of lymphoedema range from immobilization of affected limbs to aesthetic modifications. The indirect consequences may be social or professional.
To treat lymphoedema, it is advisable to take 5 granules of Natrum Sulfuricum 5 CH three times a day.
Furthermore, resorting to Gingko biloba can also help stimulate lymphatic drainage in order to get rid of water retention in the cells. A mother tincture of Fucus vesiculosus can also be taken to carry out a general drainage of the body so as to better alleviate lymphoedema. In this case, it is advised to administer 20 drops of the remedy three times a day, during one week per month.
To reduce excessive water retention, it is recommended to take 5 granules of Natrum Sulfuricum 9 CH three times a day. To prevent secondary lymphoedema, you can take 5 granules of Bufo bufo 5 CH three times a day. For an optimal therapeutic effectiveness, it is advisable to continue the treatment until the redness and inflammation completely disappear.
A medical consultation is essential in case of redness and warmth in the arm, significant pain or pain in the shoulder and shoulder blade. Other warning signs include a feeling of heaviness, tingling sensations as well as a substantial increase in the size of the affected limb.
• Bovista Gigantea
• Natrum Sulfuricum
Good to know: Homoeopathic treatment helps to prevent all kinds of complications linked to lymphoedema, ranging from lymphangitis to the development of a cancer or lymphangiosarcoma.
