What is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is a protein-rich swelling within the tissues due to a failure of the lymphatic system to remove the excess fluid. It is most commonly found int he arms or legs.

What causes it?

Lymphoedema happens when the lymphatic system — which helps fight infection and remove excess fluid — doesn’t work properly. This leads to a build-up of lymph fluid in the tissues.

There are two main types:

1. Primary lymphoedema – caused by genetic or developmental issues with the lymphatic system. It can develop at birth, during puberty, or later in life.

2. Secondary lymphoedema – caused by damage to the lymphatic system, often due to:

   • Cancer or its treatment (like surgery or radiotherapy)

   • Infection

   • Injury

   • Venous disease

   • Immobility

     
     

Common symptoms:

• Swelling in a limb or part of the body

• A feeling of heaviness or tightness

• Restricted range of motion

• Aching or discomfort

• Thickened or hardened skin (fibrosis)

• Recurring infections in the affected area (like cellulitis)

  
  

Is it treatable?

There’s no cure, but it can be managed with:

• Compression garments

• Manual lymphatic drainage (a special type of massage)

• Exercise to encourage fluid movement

• Skincare to prevent infections

• Healthy weight management

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If left untreated, it can worsen over time, so early diagnosis and management are key.