Dr. Manju Kalra

Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymph fluid in the soft tissues, most frequently in the arms or legs. Lymph fluid, rich in protein, is normally filtered by the lymph nodes and is then released into the bloodstream. When the nodes are obstructed, their filtering capacity is overwhelmed and lymph fluid collects and causes swelling. 

Usually chronic, but can be controlled

Lymphedema is usually a chronic condition. Untreated, lymphedema can lead to irreversible skin changes, frequent infections, reduced mobility of the affected limb and diminished quality of life.

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The information contained on Vascular.org is not intended, and should not be relied upon, as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. It is very important that individuals with specific medical problems or questions consult with their doctor or other health care professional.
The information contained on Vascular.org is not intended, and should not be relied upon, as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. It is very important that individuals with specific medical problems or questions consult with their doctor or other health care professional.

Condition Information

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SymptomsBack to top

Swelling, Heaviness, Tightness & Itching

You may notice swelling and heaviness in the affected limb or other body part, along with tightness and itching.

Progressive Swelling

You may experience progressive swelling that causes significantly reduced mobility of the affected limb.

Skin Problems: Infections, Hardening & Thickening

In advanced stages, lymphedema can cause recurrent skin infections, irreversible soft tissue swelling, and, finally, hardening and thickening of the skin.

Regular arm VS an arm with lymphedema
The arm on the left is healthy while the arm on the right is showing signs of lymphedema
CausesBack to top

Primary Lymphedema is due to failed or faulty development of lymph nodes and/or blood vessels and mainly affects women. This deficiency may be present at birth, but symptoms often appear later in life. Primary lymphedema most often occurs in the legs but can affect the entire body.

Secondary Lymphedema is typically caused by surgical removal, injury or destruction of the lymph nodes or of blood vessels as a complication of radiation treatment, or by a tropical parasitic infection called lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis). It can also develop from a chronic overload of the lymphatic system due to recurrent skin infections, problems with blood vessels or obesity. Secondary lymphedema is most often localized to the body part with the absent or injured lymph nodes.

CausesBack to top

A history of painless leg swelling experienced as a teenager or at any age following removal or damage to lymph nodes may suggest lymphedema. A diagnosis can often be confirmed by a physical exam of the affected limb or body part. 

Tests May Be Needed

Imaging of the lymphatic system through lymphoscintigraphy is sometimes performed to identify treatment options.

TreatmentsBack to top

Early, aggressive treatment is the key to achieving long-term control of lymphedema.

At Stage I, when there is “no permanent soft tissue changes,” swelling can be reversed by elevating the affected limb and by wearing compression garments.

At Stage II, lymphedema requires treatment for relief of symptoms as some scarring has occurred in the affected tissues.

In Stage III, when definite skin thickening and hardening have occurred, treatment consists of reduction and maintenance therapy.

  • Reduction Therapy involves compression wrapping with low-stretch bandages worn 24 hours a day, supplemented with massage therapy and exercise.
  • Maintenance Therapy involves regular daytime use of compression garments and/or pneumatic compression sleeves that inflate and deflate to help propel lymphatic fluid.

In intractable cases, surgery to remove excess tissue or bypass obstructed lymph vessels may be considered, but results are mixed.

Lymphedema being treated
The arm is being treated for lymphedema.
Staying HealthyBack to top

Here are ways to manage lymphedema: 

  • Wear compression garments and use prescribed pumps for the rest of your life. 
  • Elevate the affected limb. 
  • Exercise regularly at a moderate level while wearing compression garments.
  • Eat a nutritious, balanced, low salt diet. 
  • Take good care of the skin on your affected limb or body part. 
    • Wear protective clothing to protect your skin from injury. 
    • Cleanse your skin and keep it well moisturized. 
    • Guard against infections and fungi.