Post # 146 – The Immediate Goodness of God-- By Elder Kyle S. McKay Of the Seventy

Dear Family and Friends

I truly hope and pray that each of you are doing much better than I am on this Sabbath day. I feel like I have been sleeping my life away☹ I came home from work on Friday night and fell asleep until my granddaughter told me it was time for her to go to work. I took her to work as usual and we got home around 1am, as usual. I fell asleep studying my scriptures and I didn’t wake up until about 9 a.m. but I didn’t stay up, I went to the bathroom and went back to sleep.

I awoke to my phone ringing. It was my granddaughter telling me what time to pick her up and that her phone was about to die so I should probably set my alarm, so I did. I set my alarm and fell back to sleep. I awoke to my alarm about 7;45 p.m. I grabbed the boys and we went in to pick her up. As we waited in the car for her to finish up with her work.  I struggled to stay awake, I usually play games on my phone until she is done, but I could not even do that it only made me tired.

She finally came out and we went home. I fell asleep and woke almost in time for church. We got to church a bit late☹ and missed the sacrament☹ I stayed for the sacrament meeting and for class – it was Relief Society this week. In Relief Society the lesson was on a general conference talk from April 2019, titled ‘The Goodness of God” – By Elder Kyle S, McKay Of the Seventy. In his talk he shares how his five-year-old son figured out that ‘soon for him would mean a very long time for the young boy. 

I think that is pretty profound for a little guy to figure out, don’t you? In his talk he also explains that when in the scriptures the Lord or his servants say things like, “Not many days hence” or” The time is not far distant,” these things could literally mean a lifetime or longer. The Lord’s time and His timing is different from ours. This lesson was so good I wanted to share it with each one of you😊

Elder McKay states that “patience is key. Without it, we can neither develop nor demonstrate faith in God unto life and salvation.” He says that his “message for today is that, even while we are patiently waiting upon the Lord there are certain blessings that come to us immediately.”

He recalls from the Book of Mormon of the time when Alma and his people had been captured by the Lamanites and they prayed for their deliverance.as you read this account you will find that they were not immediately delivered from their bondage, but the Lord ‘showed forth with immediate blessings’ as they waited patiently for their deliverance. 

The Lord immediately softened the hearts of the Lamanites, so they would not slay Alma and his people. The Lord also strengthened Alma and his people so that they could bear their burdens as well as eased their burdens. 

When the time came that Alma and his people were finally d3elivered they travelled to Zarahemla. When they arrived, they told the people there of their experience. The people of Zarahemla were amazed by the experiences that Alma and his people told they about. The people of Zarahemla marveled at the telling of these experiences, and “when they thought of the immediate goodness of God, and his power in delivering Alma and his people out of their bondage, they did raise their thanks to God.”

Elder McKay continues, “The immediate goodness of God comes to all of who call upon Him with real intent and full purpose of heart. This includes those who cry out in desperation, when deliverance seems so distant and suffering seems so prolonged, even intensified.” He retells the account of when the Prophet Joseph Smith was being held as a prisoner in jail at Liberty, Missouri, where he suffered so much. He had thought that the Lord had forgotten him. He finally called out: “O God, where art thou? … How long shall thy hand be stayed… Ye, O Lord, how long …? In His response to Joseph, the Lord did not deliver him immediately, but He did immediately pronounce peace upon him.

God also gives immediate hope for eventual deliverance. No matter what, no matter where, in Christ and through Christ there is always hope smiling brightly before us. Immediately before us. Moreover, He has promised, ‘My kindness shall not depart from thee.” Above all, God’s love is immediate. With Paul, I testify that nothing can separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus.” Even our sins, though they may separate us from His Spirit for a time, cannot separate us from the constancy and immediacy of His divine paternal love. Wow!! This is the kind of good news we love to hear, right?

These are some of the ways and means by which “he doth immediately bless {us}.” Now, to bring these principles current and close, I share with you the experiences of two people whose loves stand as testaments of the immediate goodness of God.

From the time she was a young teen Emilie struggled with substance abuse. Experimentation ed to habit, and habit eventually hardened into an addiction that held her captive for years, notwithstanding occasional periods of wellness. Emilie carefully concealed her problem, especially after she became a wife and mother.

The beginning of her deliverance did not feel like deliverance at all. one minute, Emilie was undergoing a routine medical exam, and the next, she was being driven by ambulance to an inpatient treatment facility. She began to panic as she thought of being separated from her children, her husband, her home.

That night, alone in a cold, dark room, Emilie curled up on her bed and sobbed. Her ability to reason diminished until finally, overcome with anxiety, fear, and the oppressive darkness in that room and in her soul, Emilie actually thought she would die that night Alone.

In that desperate condition, Emilie somehow summoned the strength to roll off her bed and onto her knew. Without any posturing that had sometimes been part of her previous prayers, Emilie completely surrendered herself to the Lord as she desperately pleaded, “Dear God, I need You please help me. I don’t want to be alone. Please get me through this night.”

And immediately as He had done with Peter of old, Jesus stretched forth His hand and caught her sinking soul. There came over Emilie a wonderous calm, courage, assurance, and love. The room was no longer cold, she knew she was not alone, and for the first time since she was 14 years old, Emilie knew everything would be all right.

As she “awoke unto God,” Emilie fell asleep in peace. And thus we see that “if ye will repent and harden not your hearts, immediately shall the great plan of redemption be brought about unto you.” Emilie’s healing and ultimate deliverance took a long time – months of treatment, training, and counseling, during which she was sustained and sometimes carried by His goodness. And that goodness continued with her as she entered the temple with her husband and children to be sealed together forever. Like the people of Zarahemla, Emilie now gives thanks as she reflects in the immediate good news of God and His power in delivering her from bondage.

This was a pretty amazing account of the goodness of God. Remember He is always there for us, but we must ask for His help when we cannot help ourselves😊 it is really quite amazing when you can feel His loving arms around you, and you know for a surety that you are not alone😊 now we will continue with Elder McKay’s next experience:

Now, from the life of another brave believer. On December 27, 2013, Alicia Schroeder joyfully welcomed her dear friends Sean and Sharla Chilcote, who unexpectedly showed up on her doorstep. Sean, who was also Alicia’s bishop, handed her his cell phone and solemnly said, “Alicia, we love you, you need to take this call.”

Alicia’s husband, Mario, was on the phone. He was in a remote area with some of their children on a long-anticipated snowmobile trip. There had been a terrible accident, Mario was seriously injured, and their 10-year-old son, Kaleb, was gone. When Mario tearfully told Alicia of Kaleb’s death, she was overcome with shock and horror few of us will ever know. It dropped her. paralyzed with unspeakable anguish, Alicia could neither move nor speak.

Bishop and sister Chilcote quickly lifted her up and held her. they wept and deeply grieved together for some time. Then Bishop Chilcote offered to give Alicia a blessing. What happened next is incomprehensible without some understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the immediate goodness of God. Bishop Chilcote gently placed his hands on Alicia’s head and, with quivering voice, began to speak. Alicia heard two things as though spoken by God Himself. First, she heard her name, Alicia Susan Schroeder. Then she heard the bishop invoke the authority of Almighty God. In that instant – at the mere utterance of her name and God’s power – Alicia was filled with indescribable peace, love, comfort, and somehow joy. And it has continued with her.

Now, of course Alicia, Mario, and their family still mourn for and miss Kaleb. It is hard! Whenever I speak with her, Alicia’s eyes well up with tears as she tells how much she loves and misses her little boy. And her eyes remain moist as she tells how the Great Deliverer has sustained her through every bit of her ordeal, beginning with His immediate goodness during her deepest despair and continuing now with the bright hope of a sweet reunion that is ‘not many days hence.”

I realize that sometimes life’s experiences create confusion and turbulence that can make it difficult to receive or recognize or retain the kind of relief that came to Emilie and Alicia. I have been through such times. I testify that, during such times, our mere preservation is a tender and powerful manifestation of the immediate goodness of God. Remember, ancient Israel was ultimately delivered “by that same God who had preserved them” day to day.

I bear witness that Jesus Chris is the Great Deliverer, and in His name. I promise that as you turn to Him with real intent and full purpose of heart, He will deliver you from everything that threatens to diminish or destroy your life or joy. That deliverance may take longer than you would like – perhaps a lifetime or longer. So, to give you comfort, courage, and hope, to sustain an strengthen you to that day of ultimate deliverance I commend to you and I testify of the immediate goodness of God in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Wow!! I can’t even imagine going through what Alicia went through, but it is good to know for a surety that the goodness of God is there for each one of us at any time that we need His help😊 you know with as tired as I was at church I am surprised that I even remembered the name of the talk to share it with you.  I came home from church only to change my clothes and go back to sleep. I woke to my grandson telling me that it was time to go take sister to work. He and his brother had been wanting to go to ork with her and hang out with me until she was done so the oldest one got into the car with me until I told him we would be home in about 3 hours. 

And I suppose after sitting in the car last night waiting for her for an hour – three hours probably seemed like waiting a week or longer😊 three hours to a 3 and a 6 year-old may even seem like a life time to them. He decided at the last minute that he thought he would just stay home and wait for sisters return home. So, I am here waiting for her to finish up with her work. I thought it might help me to stay awake if I had someone to visit with😊and I chose ll of you!!

So today I wore a new top to church – it is a long-sleeved top, which I do not normally wear because I get too hot too easily. Today I thought I would try wearing one of these tops, because I have not been able to stay warm off and on all night – yes, I probably have been fevered throughout the night. 

Anyway, I wore this long-sleeved top and I forgot to wear my glove (the one for my lymphedema) and guess what I noticed? I looked like I was pretty normal again😊 because my long-sleeved top covered up my sleeve (that I have to wear ow because of the lymphedema) and my hand wasn’t too swollen so I looked pretty normal😊 I know, I get excited over the simplest things don’t I? 😊

I am glad that I bought the tops a little bigger than I needed so that they do not show just how much bigger my one arm is than the other. I always have people – especially children asking me why I wear my sleeve and my glove. It is sometimes hard for even an adult to understand – now try explaining it to a child! This explanation comes to you directly from the 

cancercenter.com:

What is lymphedema?

Lymphedema is swelling caused by the excess buildup of fluid under the skin, and is often caused when lymph nodes are removed or damaged. The lymph nodes act as a filter for waste, which is swept up and carried to the lymph nodes by the protein-rich lymphatic fluid. When the lymph nodes are damaged or blocked, the lymphatic fluid may accumulate beneath the skin in the lymph vessels and cause gradual swelling.

There are two types of this condition:

Secondary lymphedema, which is caused by another condition that damages the lymph nodes or vessels, may be caused by a lymph node infection, cancer, radiation, surgery or injury

Primary lymphedema, which is rare, is a genetic condition in which the lymph nodes or vessels are missing or aren't fully developed.

How does lymphedema affect cancer patients?

 

Learn more about lymphedema symptoms and treatments. Download lymphedema infographic »

Lymphedema is a common side effect of some cancer treatments, including surgery or radiation therapy. The resulting blockage prevents fluid from draining sufficiently, causing it to collect in the fatty tissue under the skin, most often in the arms and/or legs. The risk grows with the number of lymph nodes affected.

Lymphedema symptoms include:

Swelling

Feeling of heaviness or tightness in the limbs

Reduced mobility in the limbs

Increased infections

Pain

Lymphedema causes include:

Cancer treatment

Removal of or damage to lymph nodes

Tumors that have returned and/or spread to the lymph nodes

Lymph system blockages from lesions

Infected and/or damaged lymphatic vessels

Scar tissue

Blockages caused by a blood clot

Obesity

The most common type of lymphedema, caused by breast cancer or its treatment, develops in the upper body and extremities. Lower-extremity lymphedema is more often associated with other cancers, including lymphoma, melanoma, prostate cancer and uterine cancer. Facial lymphedema is more often associated with head and neck cancers.

How likely are cancer patients to experience lymphedema?

While the incidence of lymphedema has been actively studied, especially in breast cancer patients, the research is inconsistent as to how many patients struggle with the condition as a result of cancer. But it is widely considered a common cancer-related side effect, and the National Cancer Institute points out that it is important to diagnose and promptly treat even mild cases to avoid “preventable severe, debilitating lymphedema.” Lymphedema may occur within days, weeks, months or years after surgical treatments, or it may develop during radiation therapy. It often develops slowly but becomes apparent within two years of cancer treatment.

What are some lymphedema treatments?

Although no cure has been developed for lymphedema, certain treatments are available that may be used to reduce the swelling and manage the pain associated with the condition. Lymphedema treatment may include compression garments, which are sleeves worn over the affected arm or leg to help move fluid out of the limb. A pneumatic compression is another type of compression garment used in lymphedema treatment that connects to a pump to inflate the sleeve, which puts pressure on the limb and moves fluid away from the fingers and toes. Exercises and massages designed to draw out fluid from the limbs may also be recommended.

More extensive forms of treatment involve surgery and may be suitable for some patients. At Cancer Treatment Centers of America^® (CTCA), we offer two surgical options to treat this condition:

Vascularized lymph node transfer surgery: This is an intricate microsurgical procedure used to treat patients with advanced lymphedema affecting the skin tissue in the arms or legs. Our plastic surgeons transfer working lymph nodes from another part of the body, typically the upper groin or lower abdomen, to the damaged site. We then divide the existing blood vessels that supply the nodes and connect them at the site where the lymph nodes are needed. We use reverse lymphatic mapping to reduce the chance of lymphedema occurring in the areas where lymph nodes were harvested.

Lymphaticovenular bypass surgery: This surgery is an intricate super-microsurgical procedure used to treat patients with mild to moderate lymphedema. Our plastic surgeons perform the surgery by shunting, or moving, fluid from several dilated lymphatics in the affected limb to adjacent venules (tiny veins) to reduce pressure. 

Learn more about the Philadelphia Lymphedema Clinic

How may integrative care help?

If left untreated, lymphedema raises the risk of infection and may lead to other problems that could alter the patient’s ability to move or operate affected limbs or other body parts. More advanced cases may also lead to skin breakdown and other complications.

A combination of supportive therapies may help patients manage the condition. Surgical options are also available to some patients. Supportive care therapies that may help include:

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of ancient Chinese medicine in which fine, sterile needles are applied to specific areas of the body, or acupoints. The needles are usually left in place for 20 to 40 minutes.

Acupuncture has been found to safely treat swelling in patients with lymphedema. If you choose to incorporate acupuncture into your care plan, the recommended frequency is two to three times per week for four to six weeks.

Learn more about acupuncture

Mind-body support

Mind-body interventions may include counseling, yoga, meditation, breathing practices and music therapy. For lymphedema, mind-body medicine may help with:

Stress management and relaxation techniques

Body image improvement

Self-awareness

Boosted motivation

Alternative ways to move and breathe

Learn more about mind-body support

Nutritional support

The risk of lymphedema increases if you are carrying extra body weight. Our registered dietitians may help you develop a plan to lose excess weight or maintain a healthy body weight.

Learn more about nutritional support

Oncology rehabilitation

Education helps to raise patients’ awareness about how they may prevent risk factors that may lead to lymphedema. For patients diagnosed with lymphedema, certified lymphedema therapists use decongestive techniques as part of physical, occupational, speech and/or massage therapy services to help them manage symptoms. Skin care, and specialized manual lymph drainage techniques, may help stimulate the lymphatic system and/or reduce swelling. Upper- and lower-body exercises may help restore range of motion and strength, and support the movement of lymphatic fluid to further reduce swelling. Therapists may recommend sleeves, stockings and/or compression bandages to help reduce swelling and the future buildup of fluid under the skin.

Learn more about oncology rehabilitation

Pain management

Pain management physicians support other integrative clinicians working to decrease lymphedema. The swelling of the tissues from the buildup of lymphatic fluid may cause pain. The pain management team at Cancer Treatment Centers of America^® (CTCA) may recommend over-the-counter medications for mild pain caused by lymphedema, while more severe pain may require prescribed painkillers. Other medications may be used to help reduce inflammation, calm nerves, treat infections and prevent blood clots.

There is so much to learn and to keep on top of when you are diagnosed with cancer😊 so much to learn and so little time to comprehend it all at once. When you are diagnoses with cancer it is sometimes hare to check omto the things that ‘might’ happen because you often too busy focused on what has already happened. That you do not have any time to focus on what might happen. But now that it is very read, l feel impressed to share all I can about this disease about how it works and what I can do the improve it😊

ABOUT MASSAGE THERAPY

Massage Therapy uses touch to help relax muscles. For centuries, it has been a healing therapy in many cultures around the world. Massage can lower stress and help you feel calmer. It affects the body as a whole, especially the muscles, bones, and circulation, as well as the lymphatic and nervous systems. 

Massage is available to Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) patients and caregivers. To schedule a massage appointment at HCI, call 801-587-4585. Appointments are available for HCI faculty and staff, space permitting.

How can massage therapy help cancer patients?

Some health care professionals recommend massage as part of their treatment plan. Massage can help reduce stress, anxiety, and pain in people with cancer. For many people, massage brings a temporary feeling of well-being. Massage helps to relax muscles. It can also relieve pain and stiffness, increase mobility, help injured muscles, and reduce the pain of headaches and backaches.

Types of massage therapy provided at HCI:

Oncology massage: individual massage plans for people with cancer

Lymphatic massage: very light, brushing touches on the skin to help drain lymphedema

Swedish massage: kneading and rubbing touch for relaxation, easier movement, and better circulation

Reflexology: pressure on specific areas of feet, hands, or ears to ease many kinds of symptoms

Craniosacral therapy: light touch to skull, spine, and pelvis, to release tension and improve movement

Guided visualization and meditation massage: massage in which the therapist gives cues to create a mental state that can help reduce pain, stress, and anxiety

Energy-based therapies: fully-clothed light-touch hand movements to promote healing

General Information About Lymphedema

KEY POINTS

Lymphedema is the build-up of fluid in soft body tissues when the lymph system is damaged or blocked.

The lymph system is a network of lymph vessels, tissues, and organs that carry lymph throughout the body.

Lymphedema occurs when lymph is not able to flow through the body the way that it should.

There are two types of lymphedema.

Possible signs of lymphedema include swelling of the arms or legs.

Cancer and its treatment are risk factors for lymphedema.

Tests that examine the lymph system are used to diagnose lymphedema.

Stages may be used to describe lymphedema.

Lymphedema is the build-up of fluid in soft body tissues when the lymph system is damaged or blocked.

Lymphedema occurs when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. Fluid builds up in soft body tissues and causes swelling. It is a common problem that may be caused by cancer and cancer treatment. Lymphedema usually affects an arm or leg, but it can also affect other parts of the body. Lymphedema can cause long-term physical, psychological, and social problems for patients.

The lymph system is a network of lymph vessels, tissues, and organs that carry lymph throughout the body.

The parts of the lymph system that play a direct part in lymphedema include the following:

Lymph: Colorless, watery fluid that travels through the lymph vessels and carries T and B lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell.

Lymph vessels: A network of thin tubes that collect lymph from different parts of the body and return it to the bloodstream.

Lymph nodes: Small, bean-shaped structures that filter lymph and store white blood cells that help fight infection and disease. Lymph nodes are found along a network of lymph vessels throughout the body. Groups of lymph nodes are found in the neck, underarm, mediastinum, abdomen, pelvis, and groin.

The spleen, thymus, tonsils, and bone marrow are also part of the lymph system but do not play a direct part in lymphedema.

ENLARGEAnatomy of the lymph system showing the lymph vessels and lymph organs, including the lymph nodes, tonsils, thymus, spleen, and bone marrow. Lymph (clear fluid) and lymphocytes travel through the lymph vessels and into the lymph nodes where the lymphocytes destroy harmful substances. The lymph enters the blood through a large vein near the heart.

Lymphedema occurs when lymph is not able to flow through the body the way that it should.

When the lymph system is working as it should, lymph flows through the body and is returned to the bloodstream.

Fluid and plasma leak out of the capillaries (smallest blood vessels) and flow around body tissues so the cells can take up nutrients and oxygen.

Some of this fluid goes back into the bloodstream. The rest of the fluid enters the lymph system through tiny lymph vessels. These lymph vessels pick up the lymph and move it toward the heart. The lymph is slowly moved through larger and larger lymph vessels and passes through lymph nodes where waste is filtered from the lymph.

The lymph keeps moving through the lymph system and collects near the neck, then flows into one of two large ducts:

The right lymph duct collects lymph from the right arm and the right side of the head and chest.

The left lymph duct collects lymph from both legs, the left arm, and the left side of the head and chest.

These large ducts empty into veins under the collarbones, which carry the lymph to the heart, where it is returned to the bloodstream.

When part of the lymph system is damaged or blocked, fluid cannot drain from nearby body tissues. Fluid builds up in the tissues and causes swelling.

There are two types of lymphedema.

Lymphedema may be either primary or secondary:

Primary lymphedema is caused by the abnormal development of the lymph system. Symptoms may occur at birth or later in life.

Secondary lymphedema is caused by damage to the lymph system. The lymph system may be damaged or blocked by infection, injury, cancer, removal of lymph nodes, radiation to the affected area, or scar tissue from radiation therapy or surgery.

This summary is about secondary lymphedema in adults that is caused by cancer or cancer treatment.

Possible signs of lymphedema include swelling of the arms or legs.

Other conditions may cause the same symptoms. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur:

Swelling of an arm or leg, which may include fingers and toes.

A full or heavy feeling in an arm or leg.

A tight feeling in the skin.

Trouble moving a joint in the arm or leg.

Thickening of the skin, with or without skin changes such as blisters or warts.

A feeling of tightness when wearing clothing, shoes, bracelets, watches, or rings.

Itching of the legs or toes.

A burning feeling in the legs.

Trouble sleeping.

Loss of hair.

Daily activities and the ability to work or enjoy hobbies may be affected by lymphedema.

These symptoms may occur very slowly over time or more quickly if there is an infection or injury to the arm or leg.

Cancer and its treatment are risk factors for lymphedema.

Lymphedema can occur after any cancer or treatment that affects the flow of lymph through the lymph nodes, such as removal of lymph nodes. It may develop within days or many years after treatment. Most lymphedema develops within three years of surgery. 

Risk factors for lymphedema include the following:

Removal and/or radiation of lymph nodes in the underarm, groin, pelvis, or neck. The risk of lymphedema increases with the number of lymph nodes affected. There is less risk with the removal of only the sentinel lymph node (the first lymph node in a group of lymph nodes to receive lymphatic drainage from the primary tumor).

Being overweight or obese.

Slow healing of the skin after surgery.

A tumor that affects or blocks the left lymph duct or lymph nodes or vessels in the neck, chest, underarm, pelvis, or abdomen.

Scar tissue in the lymph ducts under the collarbones, caused by surgery or radiation therapy.

Lymphedema often occurs in breast cancer patients who had all or part of their breast removed and axillary (underarm) lymph nodes removed. Lymphedema in the legs may occur after surgery for uterine cancer, prostate cancer, lymphoma, or melanoma. It may also occur with vulvar cancer or ovarian cancer. Lymphedema occurs frequently in patients with cancers of the head and neck due to high-dose radiation therapy and combined surgery.

Tests that examine the lymph system are used to diagnose lymphedema.

It is important to make sure there are no other causes of swelling, such as infection or blood clots. The following tests and procedures may be used to diagnose lymphedema:

Physical exam and history: An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as lumps or anything else that seems unusual. A history of the patient’s health habits and past illnesses and treatments will also be taken.

Lymphoscintigraphy: A method used to check the lymph system for disease. A very small amount of a radioactive substance that flows through the lymph ducts and can be taken up by lymph nodes is injected into the body. A scanner or probe is used to follow the movement of this substance. 

Lymphoscintigraphy is used to find the sentinel lymph node (the first node to receive lymph from a tumor) or to diagnose certain diseases or conditions, such as lymphedema.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI).

The swollen arm or leg is usually measured and compared to the other arm or leg. Measurements are taken over time to see how well treatment is working.

A grading system is also used to diagnose and describe lymphedema. Grades 1, 2, 3, and 4 are based on size of the affected limb and how severe the signs and symptoms are.

Stages may be used to describe lymphedema.

Stage I: The limb (arm or leg) is swollen and feels heavy. Pressing on the swollen area leaves a pit (dent). This stage of lymphedema may go away without treatment.

Stage II: The limb is swollen and feels spongy. A condition called tissue fibrosis may develop and cause the limb to feel hard. Pressing on the swollen area does not leave a pit.

Stage III: This is the most advanced stage. The swollen limb may be very large. Stage III lymphedema rarely occurs in breast cancer patients. Stage III is also called lymphostatic elephantiasis.

Managing Lymphedema

KEY POINTS

Patients can take steps to prevent lymphedema or keep it from getting worse.

Preventive steps include the following:

Tell your health care provider right away if you notice symptoms of lymphedema.

Keep skin and nails clean and cared for, to prevent infection.

Avoid blocking the flow of fluids through the body.

Keep blood from pooling in the affected limb.

Studies have shown that carefully controlled exercise is safe for patients with lymphedema.

Patients can take steps to prevent lymphedema or keep it from getting worse.

Taking preventive steps may keep lymphedema from developing. Health care providers can teach patients how to prevent and take care of lymphedema at home. If lymphedema has developed, these steps may keep it from getting worse.

Preventive steps include the following:

Tell your health care provider right away if you notice symptoms of lymphedema.

See the General Information section for symptoms that may be caused by lymphedema. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms. The chance of improving the condition is better if treatment begins early. Untreated lymphedema can lead to problems that cannot be reversed.

Keep skin and nails clean and cared for, to prevent infection.

Bacteria can enter the body through a cut, scratch, insect bite, or other skin injury. Fluid that is trapped in body tissues by lymphedema makes it easy for bacteria to grow and cause infection. Look for signs of infection, such as redness, pain, swelling, heat, fever, or red streaks below the surface of the skin. Call your doctor right away if any of these signs appear. Careful skin and nail care helps prevent infection:

Use cream or lotion to keep the skin moist.

Treat small cuts or breaks in the skin with an antibacterial ointment.

Avoid needle sticks of any type into the limb (arm or leg) with lymphedema. This includes shots or blood tests.

Use a thimble for sewing.

Avoid testing bath or cooking water using the limb with lymphedema. There may be less feeling (touch, temperature, pain) in the affected arm or leg, and skin might burn in water that is too hot.

Wear gloves when gardening and cooking.

Wear sunscreen and shoes when outdoors.

Cut toenails straight across. See a podiatrist (foot doctor) as needed to prevent ingrown nails and infections.

Keep feet clean and dry and wear cotton socks.

Avoid blocking the flow of fluids through the body.

It is important to keep body fluids moving, especially through an affected limb or in areas where lymphedema may develop.

Do not cross legs while sitting.

Change sitting position at least every 30 minutes.

Wear only loose jewelry and clothes without tight bands or elastic.

Do not carry handbags on the arm with lymphedema.

Do not use a blood pressure cuff on the arm with lymphedema.

Do not use elastic bandages or stockings with tight bands.

Keep blood from pooling in the affected limb.

Keep the limb with lymphedema raised higher than the heart when possible.

Do not swing the limb quickly in circles or let the limb hang down. This makes blood and fluid collect in the lower part of the arm or leg.

Do not apply heat to the limb.

Studies have shown that carefully controlled exercise is safe for patients with lymphedema.

Exercise does not increase the chance that lymphedema will develop in patients who are at risk for lymphedema. In the past, these patients were advised to avoid exercising the affected limb. Studies have now shown that slow, carefully controlled exercise is safe and may even help keep lymphedema from developing. Studies have also shown that, in breast-cancer survivors, upper-body exercise does not increase the risk that lymphedema will develop. (See the Exercise section under Treatment of Lymphedema for more information.)

Treatment of Lymphedema

KEY POINTS

The goal of treatment is to control the swelling and other problems caused by lymphedema.

Treatment of lymphedema may include the following:

Pressure garments

Exercise

Bandages

Skin care

Combined therapy

Compression device

Weight loss

Laser therapy

Drug therapy

Surgery

Massage therapy

When lymphedema is severe and does not get better with treatment, other problems may be the cause.

The goal of treatment is to control the swelling and other problems caused by lymphedema.

Damage to the lymph system cannot be repaired. Treatment is given to control the swelling caused by lymphedema and keep other problems from developing or getting worse. Physical (non-drug) therapies are the standard treatment. Treatment may be a combination of several of the physical methods. The goal of these treatments is to help patients continue with activities of daily living, to decrease pain, and to improve the ability to move and use the limb (arm or leg) with lymphedema. Drugs are not usually used for long-term treatment of lymphedema.

Treatment of lymphedema may include the following:

Pressure garments

Pressure garments are made of fabric that puts a controlled amount of pressure on different parts of the arm or leg to help move fluid and keep it from building up. Some patients may need to have these garments custom-made for a correct fit. Wearing a pressure garment during exercise may help prevent more swelling in an affected limb. It is important to use pressure garments during air travel, because lymphedema can become worse at high altitudes. Pressure garments are also called compression sleeves and lymphedema sleeves or stockings.

Exercise

Both light exercise and aerobic exercise (physical activity that causes the heart and lungs to work harder) help the lymph vessels move lymph out of the affected limb and decrease swelling.

Talk with a certified lymphedema therapist before beginning exercise.

Patients who have lymphedema or who are at risk for lymphedema should talk with a certified lymphedema therapist before beginning an exercise routine. (See the Lymphology Association of North AmericaExit Disclaimer Web site for a list of certified lymphedema therapists in the United States.)

Wear a pressure garment if lymphedema has developed.

Patients who have lymphedema should wear a well-fitting pressure garment during all exercise that uses the affected limb or body part.

When it is not known for sure if a woman has lymphedema, upper-body exercise without a garment may be more helpful than no exercise at all. Patients who do not have lymphedema do not need to wear a pressure garment during exercise.

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 lymphedema or who are at risk for lymphedema. Weight-lifting that is slowly increased may keep lymphedema from getting worse. Exercise should start at a very low level, increase slowly over time, and be overseen by the lymphedema therapist. If exercise is stopped for a week or longer, it should be started again at a low level and increased slowly.

If symptoms (such as swelling or heaviness in the limb) change or increase for a week or longer, talk with the lymphedema therapist. It is likely that exercising at a low level and slowly increasing it again over time is better for the affected limb than stopping the exercise completely.

More studies are needed to find out if weight-lifting is safe for cancer survivors with lymphedema in the legs.

Bandages

Once the lymph fluid is moved out of a swollen limb, bandaging (wrapping) can help prevent the area from refilling with fluid. Bandages also increase the ability of the lymph vessels to move lymph along. Lymphedema that has not improved with other treatments is sometimes helped with bandaging.

Skin care

The goal of skin care is to prevent infection and to keep skin from drying and cracking. See skin care tips, in the Managing Lymphedema section.

Combined therapy

Combined physical therapy is a program of massage, bandaging, exercises, and skin care managed by a trained therapist. At the beginning of the program, the therapist gives many treatments over a short time to decrease most of the swelling in the limb with lymphedema. Then the patient continues the program at home to keep the swelling down. Combined therapy is also called complex decongestive therapy.

Compression device

Compression devices are pumps connected to a sleeve that wraps around the arm or leg and applies pressure on and off. The sleeve is inflated and deflated on a timed cycle. This pumping action may help move fluid through lymph vessels and veins and keep fluid from building up in the arm or leg. Compression devices may be helpful when added to combined therapy. The use of these devices should be supervised by a trained professional because too much pressure can damage lymph vessels near the surface of the skin.

Weight loss

In patients who are overweight, lymphedema related to breast cancer may improve with weight loss.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy may help decrease lymphedema swelling and skin hardness after a mastectomy. A hand-held, battery-powered device is used to aim low-level laser beams at the area with lymphedema.

Drug therapy

Lymphedema is not usually treated with drugs. Antibiotics may be used to treat and prevent infections. Other types of drugs, such as diuretics or anticoagulants (blood thinners), are usually not helpful and may make the lymphedema worse.

Surgery

Lymphedema caused by cancer is rarely treated with surgery.

Massage therapy

Massage therapy (manual therapy) for lymphedema should begin with someone specially trained in treating lymphedema. In this type of massage, the soft tissues of the body are lightly rubbed, tapped, and stroked. It is a very light touch, almost like a brushing. Massage may help move lymph out of the swollen area into an area with working lymph vessels. Patients can be taught to do this type of massage therapy themselves.

When done correctly, massage therapy does not cause medical problems. Massage should not be done on any of the following:

Open wounds, bruises, or areas of broken skin.

Tumors that can be seen on the skin surface.

Areas with deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in a vein).

Sensitive soft tissue where the skin was treated with radiation therapy.

When lymphedema is severe and does not get better with treatment, other problems may be the cause.

Sometimes severe lymphedema does not get better with treatment or it develops several years after surgery. If there is no known reason, doctors will try to find out if the problem is something other than the original cancer or cancer treatment, such as another tumor.

Lymphangiosarcoma is a rare, fast-growing cancer of the lymph vessels. It is a problem that occurs in some breast cancer patients and appears an average of 10 years after a mastectomy.

 Lymphangiosarcoma begins as purple lesions on the skin, which may be flat or raised. A CT scan or MRI is used to check for lymphangiosarcoma. Lymphangiosarcoma usually cannot be cured.

Purpose of This Summary

This PDQ cancer information summary has current information about the causes and treatment of lymphedema. It is meant to inform and help patients, families, and caregivers. It does not give formal guidelines or recommendations for making decisions about health care.

Reviewers and Updates

Editorial Boards write the PDQ cancer information summaries and keep them up to date. These Boards are made up of experts in cancer treatment and other specialties related to cancer. The summaries are reviewed regularly and changes are made when there is new information. The date on each summary ("Updated") is the date of the most recent change.

The information in this patient summary was taken from the health professional version, which is reviewed regularly and updated as needed, by the PDQ Supportive and Palliative Care Editorial Board.

Clinical Trial Information

A clinical trial is a study to answer a scientific question, such as whether one treatment is better than another. Trials are based on past studies and what has been learned in the laboratory. Each trial answers certain scientific questions in order to find new and better ways to help cancer patients. During treatment clinical trials, information is collected about the effects of a new treatment and how well it works. If a clinical trial shows that a new treatment is better than one currently being used, the new treatment may become "standard." Patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. Some clinical trials are open only to patients who have not started treatment.

Clinical trials can be found online at NCI's website. For more information, call the Cancer Information Service (CIS), NCI's contact center, at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).

Disclaimer

The information in these summaries should not be used to make decisions about insurance reimbursement. More information on insurance coverage is available on Cancer.gov on the Managing Cancer Care page.

Contact Us

More information about contacting us or receiving help with the Cancer.gov website can be found on our Contact Us for Help page. Questions can also be submitted to Cancer.gov through the website’s E-mail Us.

Updated: September 19, 2019

Temporary lymphedema

Lymphedema can start right after surgery. This is called temporary (or short-term) lymphedema. It’s usually mild and goes away in the next month or so. It can also start later, about 6 to 8 weeks after surgery or radiation.

Even though this type of lymphedema usually goes away on its own over time, you should tell your doctor about it right away. The swollen area may look red and feel hot, which could also be a sign of blood clot, infection, or other problem that needs to be checked.

If there are no other problems causing the swelling, temporary lymphedema might be treated by raising the arm or leg and taking medicines to help reduce inflammation.

Months or years after cancer treatment: Chronic lymphedema

This form of lymphedema develops slowly over time. It may show up many months or even years after cancer treatment. The swelling can range from mild to severe. The lymph fluid that collects in the skin and underlying tissues can be very uncomfortable. It can keep nutrients from reaching the cells, interfere with wound healing, and lead to infections.

Lymphedema can be a long-term problem, but there are ways to manage it. The key is to get help right away. Lymphedema is easier to treat and more likely to respond to treatment if it’s treated early.

Signs of lymphedema

If lymphedema does develop, it’s important to recognize it early so you can start treatment right away.

Common signs and symptoms you should watch for include:

Swelling

Part of your body (like your arm, leg, belly, or genitals) feeling full or heavy

Skin changing texture, feeling tight or hard, or looking red

New aching, tingling, numbness, or other discomfort in the area

Less movement or flexibility in nearby joints (like your hand, wrist, or ankle) or your eyelid(s), throat, or lips

Trouble fitting into clothes in one area, such as a sleeve, pant leg, or shoe being tight

Collars, rings, watches, and/or bracelets feeling tight even though you haven’t gained weight

At first, the skin usually stays soft, and raising the affected body part might relieve the swelling. But over time, the swollen area may become hot and red and the skin hard and stiff. If untreated, movement and use of the affected part may become limited.

When to get help

Call your doctor, nurse, physical therapist, or lymphedema therapist if you notice any of the signs of lymphedema listed above or any of these changes:

If any part of the affected area, such as an arm or a leg, feels hot, looks red, or swells suddenly. These could be a sign of infection or a blood clot, and you might need treatment right away.

If you have a temperature of 100.5°F or higher (taken by mouth) that’s not related to a cold or flu

If you have any new pain in the affected area with no known cause

Know what’s normal for you

If you’ve had lymph nodes removed or radiation treatment, look closely at your body in front of a mirror. Compare both sides of your body and look for changes in size, shape, or skin color. Get to know your body and what’s normal for you. This way you can spot changes and get treatment right away. Let your doctor or nurse know if you notice any of the signs listed above.

Some doctors measure the affected body part (like a leg or arm) before surgery, then re-measure afterward so that swelling can be detected and treated before it becomes obvious. You can ask your doctor to take these measurements or refer you to a physical therapist to have this done. If possible, ask to be referred to a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT).

To find a certified lymphedema therapist contact:

Lymphology Association of North America (LANA)
www.clt-lana.org

National Lymphedema Network (NLN)
1-800-541-3259
www.lymphnet.org

Be sure to check your health insurance to make sure lymphedema screening and therapy is covered.

Written by

References

The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team

Our team is made up of doctors and oncology certified nurses with deep knowledge of cancer care as well as journalists, editors, and translators with extensive experience in medical writing.

Last Medical Review: July 7, 2016 Last Revised: July 7, 2016

American Cancer Society medical information is copyrighted material. For reprint requests, please see our Content Usage Policy.

Well I bet you may know where we are by now in our talk, yes, we are at the end of our talk and the end of today’s post. I hope and I pray that I have shared something that has been enlightening to you in some small way😊 it is still a struggle for me to stay awake tonight so I will end our talk. 

My granddaughter said she is just about done. Then we can go home and I can get back to bed☹ sad but true, I am afraid😊Day three and I am still so tired. I also have a bad cough. Probably just a bad cold. I did get my flu shot earlier back so I should be good that way – I think😊

As usual I hope that you each will continue to pray, study your scriptures nd hold family home evening. Teach to your gamily members and friends all that you are learning from the scriptures – it is so very important for them to learn it, to know it and to live it!!! 

Remember who you are and remind your family and friends just who they are as well – each one of us are a child of God!! Each one of us can have the opportunity to return to live with our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Until my next post, please make it a grand week😊