What is Lymphedema? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Lymphedema is an abnormal, persistent swelling of a body part (most commonly an arm or a leg) that occurs when the lymphatic system does not function properly.

What does the lymphatic system do?

The lymphatic system works as the body’s drainage and filtration network. It:

• Removes excess fluid from tissues
• Clears proteins and toxins
• Returns fluid back into the bloodstream

When this system becomes blocked or damaged, fluid accumulates in tissues → causing swelling (edema).
This condition is called lymphedema.

Which body parts are affected?

• Most common: Arms and legs
• Others: Face, neck, breast, genital region

Causes

1. Primary Lymphedema

(Congenital / genetic)

• Present from birth or develops without a clear cause
• Due to abnormal development of lymph vessels

2. Secondary Lymphedema (Most common)

• Removal of lymph nodes during cancer surgery
• Radiation therapy damage
• Infection (e.g., filariasis)
• Injury or burns
• Tumor pressure on lymph vessels

Symptoms

Early Stage

• Mild swelling
• Heaviness or tightness
• Clothes, watch, or rings feel tight

Advanced Stage

• Difficulty moving the limb
• Thick, hard skin
• Recurrent skin infections
• Wounds or fluid leakage
• Risk of sepsis

Treatment

Important: Lymphedema is a chronic condition — it cannot usually be completely cured, but it can be effectively controlled.

Main Treatments

1. Compression therapy (stockings or bandages)
2. Manual lymph drainage massage
3. Exercise & physiotherapy
4. Skin care (to prevent infection)
5. Surgery (in selected cases)

Goals of Treatment

• Reduce swelling
• Decrease pain
• Improve daily functioning

Why recent research matters

Scientists have recently identified a new cellular mechanism regulating lymph flow. This may lead to future targeted therapies — meaning lymphedema might one day be treated more effectively instead of only being managed.