Lymphedema – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Lymphedema is a condition where protein-rich fluid builds up in tissues, causing swelling. This happens when the lymphatic system, which normally drains this fluid, becomes blocked or damaged.
The condition most frequently affects arms and legs, though it can also develop in the chest, abdomen, neck, and genital areas.
The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes that play a crucial role in fluid drainage. Cancer treatments that remove or damage these nodes can lead to lymphedema. Any obstruction in lymph drainage pathways can trigger this condition.
In severe cases, lymphedema can limit mobility in affected limbs. It also increases risks of skin infections and sepsis. Skin changes and breakdown may occur in advanced stages.
Body Symptoms
Lymphedema can cause several noticeable changes in your body. Look for these common signs:
- Swelling in part or all of your arm or leg, including fingers and toes
- Heavy feeling or tightness in the affected area
- Limited movement in joints of arms or legs
- Frequent infections in the affected limb
- Thick, hard skin developing over time
These symptoms might be mild or severe. For people who have had cancer treatment, lymphedema symptoms may appear months or even years later.
When You Should Call a Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice ongoing swelling in your arm or leg that doesn’t go away.
If you’ve already been diagnosed with lymphedema and suddenly see a major increase in the size of your affected limb, seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment helps manage symptoms better.
Causes
Lymphedema develops when lymph fluid cannot properly drain from body tissues, typically affecting an arm or leg. This condition occurs when lymph vessels—part of the immune system that normally transports protein-rich fluid throughout the body—become damaged or blocked.
Several factors can lead to lymphedema:
- Cancer-related blockage: Tumors can grow large enough to press against lymph vessels or nodes, preventing normal fluid movement. This blockage causes lymph fluid to build up in surrounding tissues.
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Cancer treatment effects:
- Radiation therapy may cause inflammation and scarring of lymph nodes and vessels
- Surgical removal of lymph nodes (often done to check for cancer spread) can disrupt the normal flow of lymph fluid
- Parasitic infection: In tropical developing regions, threadlike worm parasites frequently cause lymphedema by obstructing lymph nodes. This is actually the most common cause worldwide.
- Genetic factors: Some people are born with abnormally developed lymphatic systems. These inherited conditions, though less common, can lead to lymphedema.
During normal function, lymph fluid moves through vessels with help from:
- Muscle contractions during everyday movement
- Small pumps within the lymph vessel walls
When this system fails, fluid accumulates in tissues, causing the swelling and discomfort characteristic of lymphedema.
Risk Factors
Several factors may raise your chance of developing lymphedema:
- Age – Older individuals face a higher risk.
- Weight issues – People with obesity or excess weight have increased risk.
- Arthritis conditions – Both rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis can contribute to lymphedema development.
Complications
Lymphedema can lead to several serious health issues if not properly managed. These complications can affect your quality of life and overall health.
Skin infections are common in people with lymphedema. The extra fluid creates an environment where bacteria thrive. Even tiny breaks in the skin can let germs in, causing cellulitis.
When this happens, the skin becomes red, swollen, warm, and painful. Doctors often provide preventive antibiotics to start at the first sign of infection.
If skin infections go untreated, they may develop into sepsis, a dangerous condition where infection spreads to the bloodstream. This requires immediate emergency care as it can be life-threatening.
In severe cases, the buildup of fluid can cause:
- Fluid leaking through skin breaks or blisters
- Skin thickening and hardening, resembling elephant skin
- Rare soft tissue cancer in extremely severe, untreated cases
