Cellulitis is a common danger among lymphedema sufferers and is a major complication that requires hospitalization for intravenous administration of antibiotics. Bacteria attack the skin on the affected limb and may travel to the tissues and consequently into the blood stream. Protein-rich fluids that have accumulated in the limb form a rich medium for the bacteria to grow and spread through the body. The visible symptoms of an infection are red blotchy skin which feels warm to the touch, swelling and increasing pain. Flu-like symptoms may also be present with fever and chills. In some cases, as the lymph nodes fight against infection they may enlarge.
Lymphedema sufferers must not ignore any sign of an infection and must seek immediate medical intervention to prevent any complications Persons who are at a high risk for lymphedema must remain alert to the signs of infection as these symptoms are often the beginning of the illness. In such cases, quick treatment may help to delay the onset of lymphedema as well as prevent the infection. However, if timely care is not taken, the problem may aggravate and become unmanageable in the long run.
A course of antibiotics usually does the task of clearing up the infection. However, the lymphedema patient is required to stop all therapy including manual lymph drainage, for the duration; compression bandages should not be applied till the problem is cleared. A bacterial infection may take between three and eight days to clear, although it depends on the severity of the condition. Fungal infections are often difficult to diagnose as they may be embedded in the tissues. However, in case where the infection is mild, the condition may clear up by itself, without any antibiotics.
Persons who are at a high risk of contracting lymphedema must be extra careful to avoid minor cuts, injuries and bruises. If in case any injury takes place, however small, immediate first aid is the first step. In case of itching, an anti-itch cream may be applied to the area. Burns and insect bites are the main reasons for infection and hence, must be taken care of quickly. If first-aid does not help, then the doctor must be consulted. Since lymphedema patients are susceptible to infection, they must carry a prescription for antibiotics or medication while traveling for any emergency.
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