Lymphedema Treatments and Siddha Remedies

Lymphedema, also known as lymphoedema and lymphatic edema, is a condition of localized swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system. The lymphatic system functions as a critical portion of the body’s immune system and returns interstitial fluid to the bloodstream. Though incurable and progressive, a number of treatments can improve symptoms. However, the Siddha Spirituality of Swami Hardas Life System can be of great help if some of the methods are used dedicatedly with Ashtanga Yoga.

Lymphedema Symptoms

The most common manifestation of lymphedema is soft tissue swelling and edema. As the disorder progresses, worsening edema and skin changes including discoloration, verrucous (wart-like) hyperplasia, hyperkeratosis, papillomatosis, dermal thickening, and ulcers may be seen. Additionally, there is an increased risk of infection of the skin, known as cellulitis.

Complications of Lymphedema

Reduces oxygen availability

When the lymphatic impairment becomes so great that the lymph fluid exceeds the lymphatic system‘s ability to transport it, an abnormal amount of protein-rich fluid collects in the tissues. Left untreated, this stagnant, protein-rich fluid causes tissue channels to increase in size and number, reducing oxygen availability. This interferes with wound healing and provides a rich culture medium for bacterial growth that can result in infections, cellulitis, lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, and in severe cases, skin ulcers.

It is vital for lymphedema patients to be aware of the symptoms of infection and to seek immediate treatment, since recurrent infections or cellulitis, in addition to their inherent danger, further damage the lymphatic system and set up a vicious circle.

Can lead to cancer

In rare cases, lymphedema can lead to a form of cancer called lymphangiosarcoma, although the mechanism of carcinogenesis is not understood. Lymphedema-associated lymphangiosarcoma is called Stewart-Treves syndrome. Lymphangiosarcoma most frequently occurs in cases of long-standing lymphedema. 

Lymphedema can be disfiguring and may result in a poor body image, which can cause psychological distress. Complications of lymphedema can cause difficulties in activities of daily living.

Lymphedema Causes

Lymphedema may be inherited (primary) or caused by injury to the lymphatic vessels (secondary). Some more causes include:

Lymph node damage

It is most frequently seen after lymph node dissection, surgery and/or radiation therapy, in which damage to the lymphatic system is caused during the treatment of cancer, most notably breast cancer. In many patients with cancer, this condition does not develop until months or even years after therapy has concluded.

Lymphedema may also be associated with accidents or certain diseases or problems that may inhibit the lymphatic system from functioning properly. In tropical areas of the world, a common cause of secondary lymphedema is filariasis, a parasitic infection. It can also be caused by damage to the lymphatic system from infections such as cellulitis.

Primary lymphedema

Primary lymphedema may be congenital or arise sporadically. Multiple syndromes are associated with primary lymphedema, including:

• Turner syndrome,
• Milroy’s disease, and
• Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome.

Lymphedema may be present at birth, develop at the onset of puberty (praecox), or not become apparent for many years into adulthood (tarda). In men, lower-limb primary lymphedema is most common, occurring in one or both legs. 

Secondary lymphedema

Secondary lymphedema affects both men and women. In women, it is most prevalent in the upper limbs after breast cancer surgery, in particular, after axillary lymph node dissection, occurring in the arm on the side of the body in which the surgery is performed. 

Lymphedema due to cancer treatment

In Western countries, secondary lymphedema is most commonly due to cancer treatment. Between 38 and 89% of breast cancer patients suffer from lymphedema due to axillary lymph node dissection and/or radiation. Unilateral lymphedema occurs in up to 41% of patients after gynecologic cancer. For men, a 5-66% incidence of lymphedema has been reported in patients treated with incidence depending on whether staging or radical removal of lymph glands was done in addition to radiotherapy.

Head and neck lymphedema

Head and neck lymphedema can be caused by surgery or radiation therapy for tongue or throat cancer. Surgery or treatment for prostate, colon, and testicular cancers may result in secondary lymphedema, particularly when lymph nodes have been removed or damaged.

Lymphedema at birth

Congenital lymphedema is swelling that results from abnormalities in the lymphatic system that are present from birth. Congenital lymphedema is frequently syndromic and is associated with:

• Turner syndrome, 
• Lymphedema–distichiasis syndrome,
• Yellow nail syndrome, and
• Klippel–Trénaunay–Weber syndrome.

GATA2 deficiency

One defined genetic cause for congenital lymphedema is GATA2 deficiency. This deficiency is a grouping of several disorders caused by a common defect, viz., familial, or sporadic inactivating mutations in one of the two parental GATA2 genes. These autosomal dominant mutations cause a reduction, i.e. haploinsufficiency, in the cellular levels of the gene’s product, GATA2.

The GATA2 protein is a transcription factor critical for the embryonic development, maintenance, and functionality of blood-forming, lympathic-forming, and other tissue-forming stem cells. In consequence of these mutations, cellular levels of GATA2 are deficient and individuals develop over time hematological, immunological, lymphatic, and/or other disorders. 

Lymphedema Diagnosis

Diagnosis is generally based on signs and symptoms, with testing used to rule out other potential causes. An accurate diagnosis and staging may help with the management.

A swollen limb can result from different conditions that require different treatments. The diagnosis of lymphedema is currently based on:

• History,
• Physical exam, 
• Limb measurements,

Early detection of lymphedema

Diagnosis or early detection of lymphedema is difficult. The first signs may be subjective observations such as a feeling of heaviness in the affected extremity. These may be symptomatic of an early stage of lymphedema where the accumulation of lymph is mild and not detectable by changes in volume or circumference. 

As a part of the initial workup before diagnosing lymphedema, it may be necessary to exclude other potential causes of lower extremity swelling such as:

• Kidney failure,
• Hypoalbuminemia, 
• Congestive heart failure,
• Protein-losing nephropathy,
• Pulmonary hypertension,
• Obesity,
• Pregnancy, and
• Drug-induced edema.

Lymphedema Classification

According to the Fifth WHO Expert Committee on Filariasis, the most common method of classification of lymphedema is as follows: 

I. Lymphedema Grading

• Grade 1: Spontaneously reversible on elevation. Mostly pitting edema.
• Grade 2: Non-spontaneously reversible on elevation. Mostly non-pitting edema.
• Grade 3: Gross increase in volume and circumference of Grade 2 lymphedema, with eight stages of severity given below based on clinical assessments.

II. Lymphedema Staging

As described by the Fifth WHO Expert Committee on Filariasis, and endorsed by the American Society of Lymphology, the staging system helps to identify the severity of lymphedema. With the assistance of a medical imaging apparatus, such as MRI or CT, staging can be established by the physician, and therapeutic or medical interventions may be applied:

Stage 0

The lymphatic vessels have sustained some damage that is not yet apparent. Transport capacity is sufficient for the amount of lymph being removed. Lymphedema is not present.

Stage 1

Swelling increases during the day and disappears overnight as the patient lies flat in bed. The tissue is still at the pitting stage: when pressed by the fingertips, the affected area indents and reverses with elevation. Usually, upon waking in the morning, the limb or affected area is normal or almost normal in size. 

Stage 2

Swelling is not reversible overnight and does not disappear without proper management. Fibrosis found in Stage 2 lymphedema marks the beginning of the hardening of the limbs and increasing size.

Stage 3

Swelling is irreversible and usually, the limb(s) or affected area becomes increasingly large. The tissue is hard (fibrotic) and unresponsive; some patients consider undergoing reconstructive surgery, called “debulking”. This remains controversial, however, since the risks may outweigh the benefits and the further damage done to the lymphatic system may, in fact, make the lymphedema worse.

Stage 4

The size and circumference of the affected limb(s) become noticeably large. Bumps, lumps, or protrusions (also called knobs) on the skin begin to appear.

Stage 5

The affected limb(s) become grossly large; one or more deep skin folds are prevalent among patients in this stage.

Stage 6

Knobs of small elongated or small rounded sizes cluster together, giving mossy-like shapes on the limb. The mobility of the patient becomes increasingly difficult.

Stage 7

The person becomes handicapped and is unable to independently perform daily routine activities such as walking, bathing, and cooking. 

Lymphedema Grades

Lymphedema can also be categorized by its severity (usually referenced to a healthy extremity):

Grade 1 (Mild edema)

Involves the distal parts such as a forearm and hand or a lower leg and foot. The difference in circumference is less than 4 cm and other tissue changes are not yet present.

Grade 2 (Moderate edema)

Involves an entire limb or corresponding quadrant of the trunk. The difference in circumference is 4–6 cm. Tissue changes, such as pitting, are apparent. The patient may experience erysipelas.

Grade 3a (Severe edema)

Lymphedema is present in one limb and its associated trunk quadrant. The circumferential difference is greater than 6 centimeters. Significant skin alterations, such as cornification or keratosis, cysts, and/or fistulae, are present. Additionally, the patient may experience repeated attacks of erysipelas.

Grade 3b (Massive edema)

The same symptoms as grade 3a, except that two or more extremities are affected.

Grade 4 (Gigantic edema)

In this stage of lymphedema, the affected extremities are huge, due to almost complete blockage of the lymph channels.

Lymphedema Treatment

While there is no cure, treatment may improve outcomes. This commonly includes:

• Compression therapy,
• Good skincare, and
• Exercise.

MLD is most effective in mild to moderate diseases. In breast cancer-related lymphedema, MLD is safe and may offer an added benefit to compression bandages for reducing swelling. Most people with lymphedema can be medically managed with conservative treatment. Diuretics are not useful. Surgery is generally only used in those who are not improved with other measures.

Compression

Prescribed Garments

Once a person is diagnosed with lymphedema, compression becomes imperative in the management of the condition. Garments are often intended to be worn all day but maybe taken off for sleeping unless otherwise prescribed.

Inelastic garments provide containment and reduction. A professional garment fitter or certified lymphedema therapist can help determine the best option for the patient.

Wrapping or Bandaging

Compression bandaging, also called wrapping, is the application of layers of padding and short-stretch bandages to the involved areas. 

During the activity, whether exercise or daily activities, the short-stretch bandages enhance the pumping action of the lymph vessels by providing increased resistance. This encourages lymphatic flow and helps to soften fluid-swollen areas.

Intermittent pneumatic compression therapy

Intermittent pneumatic compression therapy (IPC) utilizes a multi-chambered pneumatic sleeve with overlapping cells to promote the movement of lymph fluid.

Exercise for Lymphedema

In those with lymphedema or at risk of developing lymphedema, following breast cancer treatment, resistance training did not increase swelling and decreases in some, in addition to other potentially beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. 

Compression garments should be worn during exercise (with the possible exception of swimming).

Surgery for Lymphedema

In very severe diseases two methods may be tried:

• Removal of excess tissue and
• Reconstruction of the lymphatic tissue.

Suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL), also known as liposuction for lymphedema, may help improve chronic nonpitting edema if present. The procedure removes fat and protein and is done along with continued compression therapy.

Laser therapy for Lymphedema

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) was cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of lymphedema in November 2006.

According to the US National Cancer Institute, LLLT may be effective in reducing lymphedema in some women. 

Stem cell therapy for Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a chronic disease with significant morbidity in many patients. Regenerative medicine, cell therapies, in particular, has the potential to repair broken physiologic processes and restore health.

Cell therapies hold promise therapeutically because they can correct deranged pathways in a multi-modal fashion, and this may provide sustained (and possibly complete) regeneration through the recruitment of native reparative cells. 

Natural ways for Lymphedema

Massage

Massage therapy can be helpful to so many health conditions, including lymphedema. It’s best to see a certified massage therapist that knows how to massage your body in a light manner that assists in moving lymph fluid from the swollen areas into other places where your lymph system is still working properly. It’s also a great idea to learn how to do self-massage to encourage healthy lymphatic fluid flow and a reduction of swelling.

Exercise

Most experts recommend moderate exercise regularly for people struggling with lymphedema. Aerobic exercise such as walking or swimming can really help to move lymph fluid out of your problem areas and lower the swelling. Talk with your doctor before starting any new exercise program. He or she will likely advise wearing some pressure garments while working out.

According to the National Cancer Institute, “Breast cancer survivors should begin with light upper-body exercise and increase it slowly. Some studies with breast cancer survivors show that upper-body exercise is safe in women who have or are at risk for lymphedema. If you stop exercising for a week or longer, you should again start off at a low level and increase activity gradually.

Practice Healthy Skincare

Healthy skin care is very important with lymphedema since you are prone to skin infections. Since you have fluid trapped in your tissues, it’s easier for bacteria to grow, flourish and cause infections.

Keep your skin, hair, and nails clean using natural cosmetic products. You should also keep your skin well moisturized using healthy moisturizers like coconut oil and shea butter. Avoid bathing or showering in hot water. Use a natural sunscreen when outdoors to avoid sunburn. Always wear gloves when gardening or doing other work outside to protect your skin.

You also don’t want to forget about your feet and toes! Keep them clean and dry and wear breathable cotton socks. See a podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail since they can often cause an infection.

Don’t Block Fluid Flow

It’s very important to keep your body fluids moving as optimally as possible, particularly in an affected limb or in areas where lymphedema may potentially develop.

Ways to encourage healthy bodily fluid flow:

• Don’t cross your legs while sitting (not good for swollen legs — or any legs for that matter — because it discourages healthy circulation).
• Aim to alter your sitting position at least every 30 minutes.
• Don’t carry bags or other items on the affected arm.
• Opt for loose clothing with no tight bands or elastic.
• Wear only loose jewelry.
• Don’t use a blood pressure cuff on the affected arm.
• Refrain from using elastic bandages or stockings with tight bands.

Take Deep Breaths

According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, deep breathing helps to stimulate the movement of lymph fluid in the body. They advise not taking more than three deep breaths at a time to avoid light-headedness. 

Manage Obesity

It’s absolutely essential to eat a healthy whole foods diet and avoid foods that contribute to obesity, including refined sugar, refined flours, sweetened beverages, processed foods, fast food, and foods containing trans and hydrogenated fats. You may want to seriously consider a ketogenic diet to help with your weight loss goals. Of course, regular exercise is another key habit to incorporate into your life if you want to recover from and prevent obesity.

Eat Right

As usual, what you eat and don’t eat can really help you to manage a health condition like lymphedema. Focus your diet on whole foods, especially anti-inflammatory foods, which means lots of vegetables and some fruits daily. You definitely want to limit high-sodium, processed foods since these foods will only contribute to more fluid retention and swelling. 

You should also quit smoking if you are a smoker and avoid, or at least limit, alcohol consumption. 

Siddha remedies for Lymphedema 

1. Siddha preventive measures

Everybody must practice Siddha preventive measures, whether a person is affected by lymphedema or not, but preventive measures are the primary steps for switching on to any other Siddha remedies, and hence they are important. It helps in one’s capability, effectiveness, productivity, decision-making power, intellectuality, and removing minor health problems. There are three types of preventive measures:

• Earthing – performed for removing and earthing the negativity of our body
• Field cleaning – cleans the energy field (Aura) of our body
• Siddha brain exercise/Energizing – energizes our brain for proper functionality

Everybody’s tendency is to get attracted to the word ‘free, however, don’t neglect even these Siddha preventive measures are free. Avail of the benefits by practicing them sincerely, and regularly. For ease of understanding what Siddha preventive measures are, please watch a video for a live demonstration.

2. Siddha Shaktidata Yoga

This unique Siddha Shaktidata Yoga of Siddha Spirituality can solve the problems related to lymphedema with Siddha remedies. There is no compulsion of training in ‘Swami Hardas Life System’ methods. This not only gives benefits to self but also it can be used for other affected persons, whether a person is in the same house, distantly available in the same city, same nation, or might be in any corner of the world, however, both the procedures have been explained here.

3. Siddha Kalyan Sadhana

Recite this Sadhana with a Sankalp “My problems of lymphedema are solved as early as possible and I should gain health”, which should be repeated in mind 3 – 3 times after each stanza. Any person irrespective of caste, creed, religion, faith, sex, and age can recite this Sadhana for free, which should be repeated at least twice a day. To know more, please click on this link.

4. CCPE products

These products work on the concepts of ‘Conceptual Creative Positive Energy’ (CCPE) within the provisions of the ‘CCPE Life System’ and the theory of Quantum Technology to a certain extent. However, the products get activated only whenever touched by a human and then they become capable of solving the problem and achieving health. However, please use these products for lymphedema as mentioned below:

CCPE Extractor: The CCPE Extractor should be gently moved over the Agya Chakra in a circular motion at least for 30 to 60 seconds, thereafter, follow the same process on the head, naval, and affected organ which finishes within almost 2-4 minutes.

CCPE Booster: Keep one Booster over the Agya Chakra and another over the head, naval, and affected organ for 3 minutes. You may need to have 4 Boosters, which establishes positivity. 

CCPE Booster Powder: Mix a pinch of CCPE booster powder with a few drops of coconut oil and make a paste. Apply it over the affected organ, and leave it for about 30 minutes. Repeat the process every after 2 hours.

5. UAM or Touch Therapy for Lymphedema

For quick and effective results, it is advisable to learn the unique methods of the Swami Hardas Life System. A trained person can only apply the UAM method or Touch therapy himself/herself and become capable of healing others.

A daily routine  

In general, a daily routine for lymphedema may look like this:

• Follow the instructions of your Doctor
• Consume Sattvic diet
• Perform breathing exercises regularly
• Perform Ashtanga Yoga regularly
• Apply free touch therapy (UAM) a minimum 3 times a day, as explained above
• Perform Swayamsiddha Agnihotra daily, either self or the caretaker can perform
• In case, if someone wishes to learn advanced methods of Swami Hardas Life System, undergo unique training

Ensure to sprinkle in some fun during the day: Don’t forget to relax and laugh in between. Laughing is a great way to boost your immune system and help you.

Along with all the above activities, apply above explained free Siddha remedies minimum 3 times a day, the more is good. Just try the methods of Siddha Spirituality of Swami Hardas Life System. I am confident that you will surely find improvements within 3 days.

Training of Swami Hardas Life System

Any health, peace, and the progress-related problem can be solved independently by undergoing Swami Hardas Life System training. It needs no money and medicines. Any person irrespective of religion, caste, creed, faith, sex, and age can undergo this unique training.

Conclusion

Because of the above, I am confident that you have learned about lymphedema, symptoms, risk factors, causes, diagnosis, treatment, Stem cell therapy, Natural ways, and Siddha remedies. Now, you have become self-sufficient, hence it’s the right time to use your acquired knowledge for solving problems as per the provision available in Siddha Spirituality of Swami Hardas Life System.

However, keep learning and practicing the free Siddha remedies, which would help guide how to solve various problems regarding health, peace, and progress, without money and medicines.

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Frequently asked questions

Before posting your query, kindly go through them:

What is lymphedema? Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under your skin. This build-up might cause swelling and discomfort. It often happens in the arms or legs, but can also happen in the face, neck, trunk, abdomen (belly), or genitals.

 

Can massage help relieve lymphedema? Massage therapy can be helpful to so many health conditions, including lymphedema. It’s best to see a certified massage therapist that knows how to massage your body in a light manner that assists in moving lymph fluid from the swollen areas into other places where your lymph system is still working properly. It’s also a great idea to learn how to do self-massage to encourage healthy lymphatic fluid flow and a reduction of swelling.