U.S. Navy

Lymphedema is a chronic medical condition caused by lymphatic insufficiency that can lead to extreme swelling and susceptibility to infection. Physical and psychosocial effects of the condition can have a significant impact on an indi-vidual’s life and level of participation. Research about experiences of individuals living with lymphedema has focused primarily on women with breast cancer, yet individuals with non-cancer-related lymphedema are a distinct group. In this study, the authors used qualitative description to explore the experience of 7 individuals living with advanced and com-plicated cases of lymphedema who had been treated in an inpatient setting. Findings reveal the extensive impact lym-phedema has on those who live with it. Participants spoke of difficulty finding a correct diagnosis and effective function. Primary lymphedema results from intrinsic Franks, & Moffatt, 2005) and are difficult to estimate for the general population. The prevalence rate for all types of chronic edema, including lymphedema, has been estimated at 1.33 per 1,000 (Moffatt et al., phedema for more than 5 years prior to diagnosis. In edema is likely more common than (Weiss & Spray, 2002) because oses and a lack of standardization riteria and measurement practices e most prominent feature of lym-e 1). In addition, lymphedema is poor skin condition and an increased s such as cellulitis (Lerner, 2000)