What is lymphedema?

Lymphedema (lim-fuh-dee-muh) is swelling of tissue caused by build up of lymph fluid.  This happens because of disruptions to the lymphatic system which can result from surgeries, cancer, and radiation treatment. More specifically following head and neck cancer, this is called secondary lymphedema. Patients who have undergone head and neck surgeries, radiation, or both, are at a greater risk for developing secondary lymphedema anywhere between 2-6 months after treatment. It’s important this lymphedema is managed and monitored by a healthcare professional as it can impact swallowing, voice, speech, hearing, and neck movement. 

The lymphatic system is a network of tubes and vessels inside the body. These vessels are part of the immune system - the system that helps filter out infections. The vessels carry something called lymph.  Lymph is a clear fluid that has white blood cells, proteins, and fats which moves in and out of cells in the body and is found just beneath the skin. The fluid is filtered out through the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures, no bigger than 1/2 inch. They contain white blood cells and filter out lymph fluid to keep us healthy. When lymph nodes are impacted by cancer, radiated, or removed completely, the lymph fluid will begin to collect resulting in lymphedema. 

Lymphedema following HNC treatment can occur in the face, on the neck, in the mouth, and in the throat (internal lymphedema). After clearance from the provider to rule out underlying causes, lymphedema can be evaluated and managed by trained speech pathologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists. 

 Taylour Campbell, MS CCC-SLP