This is a case of a 44- year old female presenting with an 18cm x 17cm soft, movable, non-tender mass at the right axilla extending to the lateral aspect of the right breast. Computerized tomographic scan of the chest revealed a lobulated, multi-septated hypodense mass. The patient underwent excision of the right axillary mass and final histopathology revealed cystic lymphangioma. Adult-onset cystic hygroma of the axilla is a rare case, with less than 10 studies documented in PubMed. Total surgical excision remains to be its primary treatment.
Lymphangioma ; Axilla

BACKGROUND

Caregiving for survivors of stroke often leads to significant stress, impacting caregivers’ health and well-being. This study aims to explore the occupational engagement and coping strategies of family caregivers in a community rehabilitation setting, focusing on the physical, emotional, and financial challenges they face.

METHODS

A qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach was used, employing in-depth interviews with eight family caregivers of stroke survivors. Participants were recruited from a rehabilitation center in a central urban area in Cebu, Philippines. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring patterns and key themes in the caregivers’ experiences.

FINDINGS

Three main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Navigating Caregiving and Life: Impact on Occupational Engagement, (2) Ripple Effect: The Strain of Emotional and Physical Demands, and (3) Navigating New Normals: Coping Strategies to Manage Caregiving Stress. Caregivers reported disruptions in daily routines, significant emotional and physical strain, and financial burdens. Coping strategies varied from adaptive techniques, such as seeking social support, to maladaptive behaviors like smoking.

CONCLUSIONS

Caregivers experience significant challenges in maintaining their occupational engagement due to the demands of caregiving. This highlights the need for targeted interventions, such as pre-discharge education, financial support, and access to community-based programs, to improve caregiver well-being and enhance their ability to manage caregiving stress.

Human ; Caregivers ; Stroke