What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a condition that develops when the lymphatic system is not functioning efficiently and excess fluid gets stuck in body tissues. This shows up as swelling, and is most often noticed in arms and legs, but can occur anywhere in the body.
Types of Lymphoedema
You may be born with an inefficient lymphatic system (primary lymphoedema) or you may develop the condition as a result of damage to lymphatic structures (secondary lymphoedema.)
Secondary Lymphoedema may be caused by:
- Cancer treatments that involve removal or radiation of lymph nodes
- Surgery and the resulting scar tissue that disrupts the flow of lymph
- Lipoedema
- Venous insufficiency
- Obesity
- Long term immobility eg illness or disability
- Accidents or injuries with extensive bruising or tissue loss.
- Parasitic infection (Lymphatic filariasis, usually in developing countries)
Left untreated the condition will progress, and can lead to:
- Increased swelling and reduced mobility
- Pain and aching in swollen areas
- Feelings of heaviness in limbs
- Skin tightness
- Altered sensations such as pins and needles
- Cellulitis infection (bacterial infection that can quickly lead to sepsis and become life threatening)
- Skin ulcers
Stages of Lymphoedema
Stage 0 – Lymphatic system is impaired, but no swelling is visually evident.
Stage 1 – Early onset with swelling that subsides with limb elevation. Oedema may be pitting.
Stage 2 – Persistent pitting oedema. Limb elevation alone does not reduce swelling.
Stage 2 (late) – Persistent swelling, there may or may not be pitting as tissue fibrosis begins.
Stage 3 – Tissue is hard (fibrotic) and pitting oedema may be absent. Skin changes such as hyperpigmentation, skin folds, fat deposits and warty over-growths develop
Early Warning Signs
- Clothing or jewellery that has become tight
- Aching or heaviness in limbs
- Pins and needles
- Swelling that comes and goes
* Ideally a therapist takes baseline measurements before cancer treatment has taken place, or as soon as practical, to help monitor for signs of lymphoedema development.
**Early intervention leads to better health outcomes by preventing or slowing progression of the condition.
Find out how we can support you to manage lymphoedema
It is important to reduce the risk of lymphoedema as there currently is no cure. Risk can be decreased by:
- Participating in regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Protecting your skin and avoid infections that create inflammation – use gloves when gardening and washing dishes, protection from sunburn and insect bites
- Treating cuts with antiseptic
Resources
Australasian Lymphology Association
Early intervention leads to better health outcomes by preventing or slowing progression of the condition
