Lymphedema is swelling in one’s arm or leg due to the accumulation of lymph fluid in the body. The lymph fluid performs the essential function of absorbing fats from the digestive tract. However, excessive lymph fluids can cause changes to the body’s skin and tissue, causing this condition. Although lymphedema commonly occurs in the arms and legs, it may sometimes develop in the face, neck, chest, etc. Here’s everything to know about lymphedema:

Causes and triggers of lymphedema

Cancer treatment
Sometimes, an enlarged malignant tumor may block the lymph system. Consequently, this tumor may have to be surgically removed. This procedure may also cause the removal of lymph nodes or vessels containing lymph fluid, leading to lymphedema. Radiation therapy for cancer may also cause damage to these lymph nodes and vessels and trigger the condition.

Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection causing inflammation and redness, typically in the lower leg. Advanced cellulitis can cause damage to tissues surrounding the lymphatic system, causing lymphedema in the affected area.

Psoriatic arthritis
In rare cases, lymphedema can result from complications due to psoriatic arthritis.

Signs and symptoms

Swelling
The most prominent sign of lymphedema is swelling of parts or all of the arm or leg. This swelling is due to the accumulation of lymph fluid.

Restricted mobility
The swelling caused by lymphedema poses a challenge for patients to move the affected area, leading to a restricted range of motion.

Fibrosis
Often, surgical incisions to remove cancerous growth from lymph nodes can cause the development of scars on the skin. These scars may become hard, leading to stiffening skin and increasing the risk of fibrosis.

Skin infections
Patients with lymphedema typically have highly sensitive skin in the affected area. Consequently, even minor injuries may lead to bacterial infections, causing redness and inflammation.

Sepsis
If left untreated, cellulitis, which may have caused or resulted from lymphedema, may spread into one’s bloodstream, leading to sepsis. Individuals having developed sepsis must be hospitalized immediately to prevent further complications.

Treatment options

Manual compression
Manual compression treatment reduces swelling by applying pressure on the affected area. This technique may facilitate the movement of lymph fluid around the lymph vessels. Compression garments and bandages are usually used for this purpose.

Manual lymphatic drainage
This form of physical therapy for lymphedema involves gently massaging the affected area to reduce swelling by ensuring better blood circulation. Physical therapists often teach this technique to patients, who can practice this form of massage independently.

Leg elevation
Leg elevation is suggested for individuals with lymphedema in their legs to prevent blood concentration in the leg. It aims to ensure blood flow away from the feet and legs to reduce swelling.

Liposuction
In severe cases of lymphedema, surgeons may remove excessive fat from the arm or leg by performing liposuction. This outpatient procedure has a short recovery period.

Charles procedure
In this procedure, the affected tissue is removed, and a part of it is utilized as skin grafts on the arm or leg. However, this procedure requires extensive post-operative care and entails a recovery period of one month.