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Vascular Diseases: Lymphedema
  

Lymphedema

The lymph system is made up of lymph vessels and nodes that run throughout the body. The lymph vessels carry fluid to the lymph nodes. When there is an injury or the lymph system isn't working properly, fluid can build up in the soft tissues of the body causing swelling in the affected limb.


Signs & Symptoms

Tightness, heaviness or weakness in the limb

Decreased flexibility in the ankles or wrist

Swelling and redness of the extremity

Diagnosis

Physician's Examination infoA health care provider investigates the body of a patient for signs of disease. It generally follows the taking of the medical history - an account of the symptoms as experienced by the patient. Together with the medical history, the physical examination aids in determining the correct diagnosis and devising the treatment plan. This data then becomes part of the medical record.

CT Angiography (CTA) infoComputerized tomographic angiography is a minimally invasive test which combines a CT scan (X-rays and computerized images) and angiography to show detailed images of the blood vessels in the body.

Ultrasound infoA form of medical ultrasonography (medical application of ultrasound technology) to visualize internal anatomical structures. It uses transmission and reflection of ultrasound waves to visualise the aorta from outside the body (with the help of gel which helps transmission of the sound waves).

Magnetic Resonance 
Angiography (MRA)infoMagnetic Resonance Angiogram is a minimally invasive test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical problems. MRA uses magnetic field and radio waves to take pictures of the major blood vessels throughout the body. Sometimes contrast material is used to enhance the blood vessels. Both blood flow and the condition of the blood vessel wall can be seen..

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Treatment

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Exercise

Compression stockings or bandages