What is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is swelling caused by damage to the lymphatic system due to many causes.  It may occur in any part of the body but is most commonly in the breast, arm or leg.  It is a swelling has been present for at least 3 months and is not relieved by elevation or diuretics.

There are two main types of lymphoedema:

Primary Lymphoedema

Primary lymphoedema is caused by alterations (mutations) in genes responsible for the development of the lymphatic system.

The faulty genes cause the parts of the lymphatic system responsible for draining fluid to not develop properly or not work as they should. It can develop at any age, but usually starts during infancy, adolescence or early adulthood.  NHS website information on primary lymphoedema.

Secondary Lymphoedema

Secondary lymphoedema develops in people who previously had a normal lymphatic system that then becomes damaged.  It can be the result of infection, injury, cancer treatment, inflammation of the limb, or a lack of limb movement.  NHS website secondary lymphoedema

Signs and symptoms

The main symptom of lymphoedema is swelling in all or part of the limb or another part of the body.  It can be difficult to fit into clothes and jewellery and watches can feel tight.  At first the swelling may come and go.  It may get worse during the day and go down overnight.  Without treatment, it will usually become more severe and persistent. 

Other symptoms in an affected body part can include:

• An aching, heavy feeling
• Difficulty with movement
• Repeated skin infections
• Hard, tight skin
• Folds developing in the skin
• Fluid leaking through the skin.