Friday, March 12, 2010

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  What is Lymphedema? Minimize

 

 

Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid which causes swelling, most often in the arm(s) and/or leg(s), and occasionally in other parts of the body. Lymphedema can develop when lymphatic vessels are missing or impaired (primary), or when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes removed (secondary).

When the lymphatic fluid exceeds the lymphatic transport capacity, an excessive amount of protein-rich fluid collects in the tissues of the affected area. Left untreated, the protein-rich fluid not only causes tissue channels to increase in size and number, but also reduces oxygen availability in the transport system, interferes with wound healing, and provides a culture medium for bacteria that can result in lymphangitis (infection).
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  What is PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease)? Minimize

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when a fatty material called plaque (plak) builds up on the inside walls of the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the head, internal organs, and limbs. PAD is also known as atherosclerotic peripheral arterial disease.

The buildup of plaque on the artery walls is called atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis), or hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis causes the arteries to narrow or become blocked, which can reduce or block blood flow. PAD most commonly affects blood flow to the legs.

Blocked blood flow can cause pain and numbness. It also can increase a person's chance of getting an infection, and it can make it difficult for the person's body to fight the infection. If severe enough, blocked blood flow can cause tissue death (gangrene). PAD is the leading cause of leg amputation.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/pad/pad_what.html
 
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 FAQ's about VENOUS STASIS LEG ULCERS Minimize
  
 FAQ's about PRESSURE ULCERS Minimize
  
 Patient Information about Diabetic Ulcers Minimize

Diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy. With this condition there is dulled sensitivity of the nerves. Someone with this condition may not notice a sore on his or her foot for days. Nerve damage from diabetes is a major cause of diabetic ulcer. It can cause foot deformities (Charcot Foot) and gait changes that result in callus build up. It also causes loss of hair, sweat and oil gland function. This leads to dry scaly skin that cracks and breaks easily.   All of these things can lead to ulceration and skin breakdown.
 
Diabetics are also prone to Peripheral Vascular Disease which is a condition where blood vessels become partially occluded by fatty deposits. This reduces the blood flow to the extremities and therefore reduces oxygen to the extremities.
 
Poor glucose control in Diabetics is also a contributing factor to diabetic ulcers. High blood sugar or hyperglycemia affects the body’s ability to fight infection when there is an open wound.
  
 FAQ's about DIABETIC ULCERS Minimize
  
 FAQ's ARTERIAL ULCERS Minimize
  
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