MY LIFE Matters: Health and Wellness Issue - 29

TIGER
TIP
Lymphatic Wellness
with Coach K
T
he National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute
defines the lymphatic system as tissues and organs that produce, store,
and carry white blood cells that fight infections and other diseases.
This system includes the bone marrow, spleen, thymus, lymph nodes,
and lymphatic vessels (a network of thin tubes that carry lymph and
white blood cells). Lymphatic vessels branch, like blood vessels, into all the tissues
of the body. Also called the lymphatic system.
When you think of health and wellness, the lymphatic system may not
come to mind but it is incredibly important part of the immune system that
keeps body fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections.
We reached out to Tigerlily ANGEL Advocate Kawana Rucker who is also a
Certified Holistic Cancer Coach to learn more.
COACH K'S TIPS FOR
LYMPHATIC WELLNESS
Lymphedema occurs when the lymph system is damaged
or blocked. Fluid builds up in soft body tissues causing
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.
TWO TYPES OF LYMPHEDEMA
» Primary lymphedema - caused by the abnormal
development of the lymph system. Symptoms may
occur at birth or later in life.
» Secondary lymphedema - 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.
TIPS TO PROMOTE LYMPHATIC WELLNESS
» Regular exercise is key for a healthy lymphatic system
» Rebounding daily; small jumps on a rebounder,
bouncing on an exercise ball, or sitting in a chair and
lifting the ankles off the floor
» Hot and cold showers
» Dry brushing
» Drink clean water
» Breathe deeply
» Compression garments
Black and Hispanic women are more likely than
White women to develop breast cancer-related
lymphedema, according to study results presented at
San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. To learn more
about lymphedema go to: https://www.cancer.gov/
about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema/
lymphedema-pdq.
VIEW
LOW IMPACT BOUNCING FOR
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
REBOUNDING IS BENEFICIAL
LYMPHATIC WORKOUT
Include the lymphatic system when you think about health and wellness. With simple exercises and activities, you can support your
lymphatic system and overall health.
MY LIFE MATTERS
HEALTH AND WELLNESS ISSUE SPRING 2023
29

https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema/lymphedema-pdq https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema/lymphedema-pdq https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema/lymphedema-pdq https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema/lymphedema-pdq https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEGbOqhfdNQ&list=PLE-CxJeQXaURVatpek0HvUpecjDqWvCQc&index=3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEGbOqhfdNQ&list=PLE-CxJeQXaURVatpek0HvUpecjDqWvCQc&index=3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5udBsEhywc&list=PLE-CxJeQXaURVatpek0HvUpecjDqWvCQc&index=4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xhc57VNdg3s&list=PLE-CxJeQXaURVatpek0HvUpecjDqWvCQc&index=5

MY LIFE Matters: Health and Wellness Issue

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of MY LIFE Matters: Health and Wellness Issue