Ask A Therapist Butterfly Pin Send E-mail Home Lymphedema can cause social inhibition, distress, depression, sexual dysfunction, physical disability, embarrassment, disfigurement, cosmetic problems and many life style changes for both men and women. The impact of lymphedema is not fully understood by health professionals and members of society.
Patients struggle with their pain, loneliness, helplessness, humiliation, and anger each day.
This anger must be addressed in a supportive environment such as a support group, or through psychotherapy. The successful use of these interventions can help improve the quality of life for people with lymphedema. If you have ever expressed any of these feelings, you may benefit from professional help, or by joining a support group. My lymphedema has not really altered my life activities, but it has made me self-conscious about the appearance of my arm. I wear a lot more long sleeved shirts.