Lymphedema in Children: How can I support my child?
Lymphoedema is a chronic swelling condition, caused by the accumulation of fluid, due to the obstruction of the lymphatic system after severe trauma or after cancer treatment. I know that when the patient is your daughter or son, it might be hard and a challenge for you to support your own emotions while trying to help physically and emotionally to your child. For that reason, I want to share with you this blog, not as just information, but as helpful word that bring your child and you relief. Supporting a child with lymphedema involves an holistic approach that includes medical treatment, emotional support, lifestyle adjustments and tons of love. Let´s navigate together how you can support your children.
Understanding Lymphedema in Children: What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema occurs when your child’s lymphatic system is not able to effectively drain or move the lymph fluid out of an area of his body (specially seen in limbs). The lymph fluid is stocked in one area of his body, leading to chronic swelling that does not go away on its own.
There are two types:
- Primary Lymphedema: Congenital (developmental abnormalities in the lymphatic system).
- Secondary Lymphedema: caused by damage to the lymphatic system, often due to surgery, trauma, or infections.
Lymphedema in children: Medical Management
1.Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
This is the cornerstone of lymphedema treatment and includes:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage. It´s a specialized massage technique that improves your child’s lymphatic flow. It must be performed by a certified therapist.
- Compression Therapy. Involves wrapping the affected limb with bandages or wearing compression garments to reduce swelling and prevent fluid buildup. Your lymphedema therapist will teach you how to wrap your child at home and also will give you key tips to get the best compression garments according to your needs.
- Skin Care. Keeping the skin clean and moisturized to prevent infections is crucial. As a parent or caregiver you should learn how to care for minor wounds and recognize signs of infection.
- Exercise. Exercise can enhance the lymphatic flow and improve mobility of your child. Get advice and talk to your child in order to find enjoyable and age-appropriate activities.
2.Regular Monitoring
It is key to have frequent check-ups with healthcare providers specializing in pediatric lymphedema. They will be in charge of adjusting treatment plans as your child grows.
3.Professional Support
Find a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She/he needs experience in treating children (look for someone who treats your child and you better). Your lymphedema therapist will tailor the treatment according to your child’s needs and provide education for you both.
Lymphedema in children: Emotional and Psychological Support
What children with lymphedema and any other chronic may experience the most are feelings of isolation and frustration due to their condition, the changes in their lifestyles, not being able to do what they want, and they may also worry about their parents or caregivers which might make them feel guilty too. For all these reasons providing emotional support is vital for children and their caregivers. Here some tips:
- Encourage Open Communication. Allow your children to express their true feelings about living with this condition and their new lifestyle.
- Seek psychological help. Therapy for your child and family members/caregivers is key to address emotional challenges.
- Joint Support groups. Encourage your child to participate in a support group. There, they can meet peers facing similar challenges, they can share activities and even make new friends. All these will help them feel less alone.
Lymphedema in children: Lifestyle changes
Encourage Healthy Habits
- Physical Activity: Promote regular enjoyable exercise. Swimming is particularly beneficial as it provides resistance without strain on the limbs.
- Nutrition: A balanced non-inflammatory (link nutrition for lymphedema) diet supports overall health and can help manage weight and inflammation which is important for minimizing other lymphedema symptoms (like pain and stiffness).
- Hydration. Encourage them to drink plenty of water or start with non-sugary beverages. Hydration is key to improve blood and lymphatic flow.
Lymphedema in Children: Home Care
- Daily Routine. Involve your children in the creation of their own self customised lymphedema routine. Also, try to play with them while applying manual lymphatic drainage or you can tell a story while compressing or changing bandages, etc.
- Education for Caregivers. As Parents or caregivers, you should be well-informed about lymphedema management techniques so you can effectively assist your child at home with lymphedema daily-related issues, like bandages, manual lymphatic drainage, nutrition and skin compression management.
In short
Supporting a child with lymphedema requires a multifaceted approach that combines medical treatment, emotional support, fun and healthy lifestyle changes. By fostering an environment of understanding and care, parents can help their children manage this condition effectively and lead fulfilling lives.
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/pediatrics/departments/lymphedema
