What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema causes persistent swelling when lymphatic drainage is reduced. It may be primary or follow surgery, infection, trauma or other disease. Evaluation also checks for venous and systemic causes of swelling.
A lymphedema assessment documents onset, distribution, skin changes, previous cancer treatment or infection and other medical causes of swelling. Venous Doppler or additional imaging is used selectively when the diagnosis is uncertain or another vascular problem is suspected.
Why Lymphedema Happens
Lymphedema occurs when lymphatic vessels cannot drain protein-rich fluid effectively. Primary lymphedema relates to lymphatic development, while secondary lymphedema may follow lymph-node surgery, radiation, infection, trauma, cancer or severe obesity. Venous disease and systemic illness can also contribute to swelling.
Who May Be More at Risk?
Lymph-node removal or radiation, recurrent cellulitis, obesity, immobility, filarial infection and a family history of primary lymphedema increase risk. Because heart, kidney, liver, thyroid and venous problems can mimic limb swelling, diagnosis should not be made from appearance alone.
Common signs and symptoms
- Persistent limb swelling
- Skin thickening or tightness
- Heaviness and reduced movement
- Repeated skin infections
How it may be evaluated
- Clinical examination
- Venous Doppler when required
- Review of surgery, infection and medicines
- Measurement and staging of swelling
Treatment options
- Compression therapy
- Skin care and infection prevention
- Specialist exercise and lymphatic therapy
- Long-term monitoring
What Can Help Before and After Treatment?
Skin hygiene, moisturising, prompt treatment of cuts, suitable exercise, weight management and professionally selected compression are important. Complex decongestive therapy may include bandaging, manual techniques and exercise. Avoid tight bands and untrained aggressive massage.
What Can Happen Without Appropriate Care?
Lymphedema is usually long-term and may progress from soft swelling to tissue thickening, heaviness, reduced movement and recurrent skin infection. Good control can reduce symptoms and complications, but treatment requires regular self-care rather than a one-time cure.
