Lymphedema Management
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of protein rich fluid. This protein rich fluid accumulates in the affect limb/area because the patient’s lymphatic system is not working properly. Without lifelong management, this disease can cause the skin to breakdown leaving you susceptible to infections/decreased motion of your affected extremity.
What causes lymphedema?
Lymphedema can be caused by a congenital defect (primary) or from a disruption to the lymphatic system (secondary). These disruptions can include, but are not limited to the following: cancer, chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries, trauma, deep vein thrombosis, chronic venous inflammation, and self-induced.
What are the symptoms of lymphedema?
Swelling in an affected body part that lasts longer than three months.
Swelling in the arm, leg, face, neck, or genitals with no known cause.
Prolonged swelling can result in loss of hair growth, changes in the texture of skin, dry skin, thickened skin, etc. Your affected body part may feel full, heavy, dull or achy.
You may notice swelling at birth, puberty, or into adulthood.
What is the treatment for lymphedema?
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT is comprised of skin and nail care, manual lymphatic drainage, gradient compression bandaging, and a home exercise program. The lymphedema program located at the Mon Health Wound, Vein and Infectious Disease clinic follows the guidelines of CDT. The team will educate you on lymphedema, work to decrease the lymphedema in your affected limb, and assist you with obtaining a compression garment to help manage the swelling as well as improve your quality of life. The team also works with Lipedema patients as well.
How do I set-up an appointment?
1. Call and schedule an appointment at Mon Health Wound Care with our therapist at 304-598-7680 or 304-285-1460 to reach our registration schedulers at our front desk.
2. You will meet with the physician for the lymphedema program at Mon Health Wound Care. The doctor will determine if you are a good candidate for CDT (complete decongestive therapy) during the initial evaluation. You will undergo an evaluation by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, and a program will be customized to fit your needs.
4. You and your therapist will set-up a schedule for treatment, once approved by your insurance.
No referral is required for most insurance plans.
Mon Health Wound Care
3000 Mon Health Medical Park Drive
Suite 3201
Morgantown, WV 26505
Hours Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM, except major holidays
(304) 285-1460 | option 1 for scheduling