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Lymphoedema
SWELLING CAUSED BY FLUID BUILD-UP IN THE BODY
Lymphoedema is chronic swelling caused by a build-up of fluid in the body tissue, usually in the arms and legs.
About
When the body’s lymphatic system doesn’t work properly it can cause a build-up of fluid in the body tissue, rather than draining it away. It’s most common in the arms and legs, and causes chronic (ongoing) swelling. There are two types of lymphoedema – primary lymphoedema and secondary lymphoedema.
Need to know
The lymphatic system transports fluid from body tissues into the blood circulation. If this doesn't work properly it can cause fluids to build-up.
Primary lymphoedema is linked to genes and means the lymphatic system hasn't developed properly.
Secondary lymphoedema is caused by damage to your lymphatic system due to:
- infection, injury
- cancer
- inflamed limbs
- venous diseases such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or varicose veins
The main symptom of lymphoedema is swelling in your arms and legs. It may also cause:
- achy, heavy feelings
- hard, tight skin
- skin infections or growths like warts
- difficulty moving freely
- leaking fluid through the skin
It’s usually possible to diagnose lymphoedema by examining the affected part of the body to see the extent of the swelling and assess other symptoms. Your consultant will also take your medical history into account.
Some other tests may be used, including:
- bioimpedance test - using electrodes to pick up any fluid in your body tissue
- imaging tests - such as an MRI scan, ultrasound, CT scan, X-ray or lymphoscintigram
- Measuring the volume of the limb with tape measures, water displacement tests or infrared lights (perometry)
Lymphoedema is a chronic, lifelong condition. While there is no treatment to cure it, there are ways to manage it.
Treatment for Lymphoedema is called Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT) and consists of:
- skin care – daily cleaning and moisturising to reduce infection
- exercise – helping to keep your weight within normal limits, which is one of the most effective ways to reduce swelling
- compression bandages and garments – helping to move fluid out of the affected area
- manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) - a type of physiotherapy that uses light, rhythmic massage techniques to move excess fluid (lymph) towards healthy lymph nodes
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.