Lymphedema is a relatively common condition. It has serious and life long affects for the person who experiences it and for the families of the individual affected. Lymph is a thin, watery fluid that contains fats, proteins, white blood cells and other substances. It flows throughout the human body. Lymph causes edema (swelling) if it accumulates abnormally in a body part or organ. Lymphedema is progressive and gets worse if left untreated. As lymph accumulates additional stress is placed on an already compromised lymphatic system. The body cannot cleanse itself when lymph flow is restricted. Sluggish lymph flow may lead to further inflammation and pain. This accumulated fluid is unsightly and causes cosmetic deformaties which are hard to hide. A physician will diagnosis lymphedema as either primary or secondary. If lymphedema is classified as primary there is a congenital or hereditary abnormality of lymph flow in the body. If lymphedema is classified as secondary then a known trauma to the lymphatic system has occured. Lymph often cannot move freely after the removal of lymph nodes, radiation, other surgeries, infection, immobility, chronic venous insufficiencies (heart and circulatory problems), burns and trauma. Currently lymphedema management consist of two phases. The first phase is the most intensive. Treatment is usually of 2 to 3 weeks duration for upper extremities and 3 to 6 weeks for the lower body. Treatment protocol is always individually tailored to the need that exists. With extreme cases the intensive decongestion phase may last more than six weeks and may have to be repeated several times The second phase is a transition from therapeutic lymph drainage to self managed manual lymph drainage and complete decongestive therapy. Self Care brings a life long commitment to being responsible for maintaining the results achieved in phase 1. This means learning to wear compression garments and knowing how to keep them serviceable; Being able to self bandage when necessary; Begining to exercise in an appropriate way. It takes commitment to learn and study about lymphedema and lymphedema products, to return for follow-up decongestive therapy at the necessary intervals. It means involving family and care givers so that they may assist in managing the life long consequences of lymphedema. It is a full time job but there are many rewards to well managed self care.