What Is Lymphoedema?

Understanding swelling that has a little more going on beneath the surface.

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition where lymphatic fluid builds up in the tissues, causing swelling.

It can occur in different areas of the body, although the arms and legs are common locations.

There are two broad types:

Primary lymphoedema
which develops because of differences in the lymphatic system itself.

Secondary lymphoedema
which develops following damage or disruption to the lymphatic system.

This can occur following surgery, cancer treatment, radiation, injury, infection or other causes.

What can lymphoedema feel like?

People may experience:

• Swelling

• Heaviness

• Tightness

• Aching

• Reduced movement

• Changes in the texture of the skin

• A feeling that clothing, jewellery or shoes are tighter

• Swelling that changes throughout the day

Everyone's experience is different.

Lipoedema and lymphoedema aren't the same.

This distinction is important.

Lipoedema primarily involves abnormal fatty tissue.

Lymphoedema involves an accumulation of lymphatic fluid.

However, they can occur together.

When lymphatic dysfunction develops alongside lipoedema, this is often referred to as lipo-lymphoedema.

Supporting lymphatic function

Management of lymphoedema is individualised and may involve a combination of:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage

• Compression

• Exercise and movement

• Skin care

• Education

• Self-management

• Lymphatic taping where appropriate

• Ongoing care with your healthcare team

At Embody, treatment is supportive rather than diagnostic.

Your care is always considered within your broader health picture.

A note about swelling

Swelling isn't always lymphatic.

Persistent or unexplained swelling can have many possible causes, including venous, cardiovascular, renal, hormonal and other medical conditions.

Sudden swelling, particularly swelling affecting one leg, or swelling accompanied by redness, heat, significant pain or shortness of breath requires medical assessment.