What causes head and neck lymphedema?

Head and neck lymphedema occurs when the body is unable to transport fluid due to damage to the lymphatic system. It happens when scarring from a surgery blocks lymphatic vessels in the neck or the lymphatic system is damaged by radiation therapy. Because the fluid isn’t easily moved, it rarely recedes on its own.

Does cancer cause lymphedema?

Lymphedema can be caused by cancer or by cancer treatment. Sometimes a cancerous tumor can get big enough to block the lymph system. Surgery to remove cancer may also remove lymph nodes or some of the vessels that carry the lymph fluid. This can cause the fluid to build up in surrounding tissues.

Is lymphedema in neck serious?

Head and neck lymphedema is a very common side effect of head and neck cancer treatment. It is a chronic condition with potentially severe implications for quality of life.

Is neck lymphedema curable?

Although treatment can help control lymphedema, it currently does not have a cure. Your doctor may recommend a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT). The CLT can develop a treatment plan for you, which may include: Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD).

Can lymphedema affect the brain?

Researchers have found a new gene that, when mutated, can lead to lymphedema (swollen limbs) as part of a rare disorder that can also cause problems with eye and brain development. This is the fourth lymphedema-related gene found by the same researchers in three years, and the first linked to the eyes and brain.

What happens when cancer spreads to the lymph nodes?

If cancer cells have spread to your lymph nodes (or beyond your lymph nodes to another part of the body), symptoms may include: lump or swelling in your neck, under your arm, or in your groin. swelling in your stomach (if the cancer spreads to your liver) shortness of breath (if the cancer spreads to the lungs)

Can you have lymphedema in your head?

If you have head and neck cancer, lymphedema can happen in any part of the head, neck, and face. There are a large number of lymph nodes in these areas. Lymphedema can happen after cancer treatment because parts of the lymph system have been removed or harmed by surgery or radiation.

Can lymphedema cause death?

Lymphedema itself is not a life-threatening condition, but it does put you at risk for serious infections, which can lead to tissue death or sepsis. Regular medical care with a vascular specialist can help reduce the risk of lymphedema complications.

Can lymphedema shorten your life?

When the duration of illness is prolonged, the lymphedema may develop into lymphangiosarcoma. The life expectancy of a patient with this condition is limited to a few months to 2 years [6], [7].

Can lymphedema be a sign of cancer?

Well, lymphedema very rarely may lead to cancer. It is not a common occurrence. On the other hand, cancer or cancer treatment may be responsible for causing lymphedema.

Is lymphedema always associated with cancer?

Lymphedema can be caused by cancer or by cancer treatment. Sometimes a cancerous tumor can get big enough to block the lymph system. Surgery to remove cancer may also remove lymph nodes or some of the vessels that carry the lymph fluid. This can cause the fluid to build up in surrounding tissues.

Can a lymphedema surgery Cure my lymphedema?

While a rare procedure, lymphedema surgery has shown promising results in reducing the painful swelling associated with lymphedema. Unfortunately, both lymphedema surgery and other lymphedema treatment options are unable to completely cure lymphedema, though they can significantly reduce the symptoms and swelling experienced by patients.

What causes swollen lymph nodes in neck?

Viral throat infection is another cause for swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Certain bacterial infections like, strep throat also leads to swollen lymph nodes. Infection in the ear or dental problems, or infection of the sinus causes swelling up of the glands in the neck.