Text: Lymphedema

• Hossam Moazzami
• October 10, 2025
• 3:17 p.m
• no comment

What is lymphedema?

Lymphedema is one of the common but little-known diseases of the lymphatic system, which is associated with gradual swelling of the hands, feet or other organs. This swelling occurs when the flow of lymph fluid in the body is disturbed and cannot be drained properly. Accumulation of this fluid causes swelling, heaviness and sometimes pain in the affected area. Lymphedema may be congenital (primary) or caused by factors such as breast cancer surgery, radiation therapy, or infection (secondary).

Why is it important to know lymphedema?

Many patients confuse lymph swelling with obesity, inflammation or water retention and do not seek treatment for a long time. But delay in diagnosis can cause thickening of the skin, restriction of movement and frequent infections. Knowing the early symptoms and taking simple preventive measures is the key to controlling this disease. If lymphedema is diagnosed early, it can be well controlled with physiotherapy treatments, lymphatic massage and skin care.

Purpose of this article

In this article, we explain in simple but scientific language what lymphedema is, why it occurs, how to recognize it, and what methods there are for prevention and treatment. If you or someone close to you has swelling after breast cancer surgery or physical injuries, reading this article will help you better understand its cause and take more informed action for effective treatment.

What is lymphedema and how does it occur?

Lymphedema is a chronic disorder in the lymph fluid circulation system that causes fluid accumulation in the soft tissues of the body. This liquid contains protein and is drained through lymphatic vessels under normal conditions. But if the lymph pathway is blocked or damaged, this fluid accumulates and causes gradual swelling of the organ. Most cases are seen in the hands and feet, especially after surgery or radiation therapy in cancer patients.

The difference between primary and secondary lymphedema

Primary lymphedema is caused by a congenital malformation of the lymphatic vessels, while secondary lymphedema is the result of acquired injuries such as lymph node surgery, infection, or trauma. The secondary type is more common in women, especially after breast cancer treatment.

Primary symptoms of lymphedema

The first symptom is usually a feeling of heaviness or stiffness in the body. Then gradual swelling, reduction of skin elasticity and highlighting of skin lines appear. If the treatment is started in the early stages, the progression of the disease can be prevented.

The cause of hand swelling after breast surgery

In some women who undergo surgery to remove lymph nodes in the armpit, the normal flow of lymph is disrupted and fluid accumulates in the arm. This condition is called lymphedema after breast cancer treatment and is one of the most common types of secondary lymphedema.

Stages of lymphedema progression

The disease progresses in four stages: in the first stage, the swelling is transient and soft, in the second stage, the tissue hardens, in the third stage, the skin thickens and changes color, and in the fourth stage, the shape of the organ changes significantly. Early diagnosis prevents progression to severe stages.

How is lymphedema diagnosed?

The doctor diagnoses the disease with a physical examination, measuring the circumference of the body and examining the medical history. In some cases, ultrasound or MRI is used to check the blockage of the lymphatic path. Quick diagnosis is very important in the success of the treatment.

Treatment of lymphedema with physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is the main basis of treatment. Techniques such as manual lymphatic massage, multi-layer bandages, and range of motion exercises help drain excess fluid. Continuous treatment can reduce the volume of swelling and improve the patient's quality of life.

Skin care in lymphedema patients

Skin of patients is prone to dryness and infection. It is necessary to use moisturizer, keep the body clean and avoid cuts or insect bites. Even a small scratch can cause cellulitis infection.

Suitable diet for lymphedema patients

An anti-inflammatory diet including fruits, fresh vegetables, omega-3 and salt reduction helps control swelling. Obesity is one of the aggravating factors; Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is very important.

Exercises useful for lymphedema

Light exercises such as walking, swimming, and gentle yoga help improve lymph circulation. These movements should be performed under the supervision of a physiotherapist so as not to put too much pressure on the body.

Lymphedema in the legs and its symptoms

Chronic leg swelling, heaviness and tight skin are common symptoms of lower limb lymphedema. Sometimes patients cannot put on their shoes or feel tired when walking. If the treatment is started early, the probability of the situation returning to normal is high.

Lymphedema after breast cancer treatment

Breast cancer treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy can disrupt the natural way of lymph drainage. In this case, the arm is swollen and the patient feels pain and heaviness. Combined treatments including massage, bandaging and regular exercises are effective.

Lymphedema and mental health of patients

Changes in body appearance and movement restrictions can cause anxiety and decrease self-confidence. Psychological support, support groups and education to patients play an important role in accepting and controlling the disease.

New methods of treating lymphedema

In recent years, new methods such as microscopic surgery of lymphatic vessel transplant and laser therapy have been used. These methods can restore lymph flow naturally and reduce the need for continuous bandaging.

The importance of early diagnosis of lymphedema

The sooner the treatment is started, the better the results and the greater the reversibility. In the early stages, exercise and simple bandages are enough, but in advanced stages, the treatments become more complicated and longer.

Cellulitis infection in lymphedema patients

Due to fluid accumulation, bacteria can easily penetrate the tissue. Redness, pain, fever and discharge are signs of cellulitis. Quick treatment with antibiotics prevents the spread of infection.

The difference between lymphedema and swelling caused by heart failure

In lymphedema, the swelling is usually firmer and does not decrease quickly by raising the leg, while in cardiac edema, the swelling is soft and symmetrical. Checking the history of heart disease or surgery is necessary for differentiation.

Lymphedema and pregnancy

During pregnancy, due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume, the possibility of lymphedema increases. The use of light pressure clothes and regular rest are recommended.

Caring for the limb affected by lymphedema

Patients should avoid wearing tight clothing and tight jewelry. Daily washing, drying the skin completely and keeping the body elevated while resting will help reduce swelling.

The role of manual lymphatic massage in treatment

Manual lymphatic massage is a specialized method performed by a physiotherapist. This technique stimulates the flow of lymph and helps to drain the fluid naturally. Doing it regularly makes the body lighter.

Lymphedema after cosmetic surgeries

In some cases, after liposuction or abdominal surgery, the lymph flow may be disturbed. Physiotherapy after surgery can prevent the occurrence of lymphedema.

Lymphedema in men

Although this disease is more common in women, it can also occur in men due to infection or trauma. In men, the legs are usually more involved and the treatment is similar.

The role of compression garments in the treatment of lymphedema

Wearing a compression sleeve or stocking allows the lymph fluid to return to normal flow. Choosing the right size and regular use play a key role in controlling swelling.

Lymphedema and joint movement limitation

Severe swelling may reduce joint range of motion. Stretching exercises and daily gentle movements help to maintain the normal function of the body.

Pharmaceutical treatment of lymphedema

Although there is no specific drug for definitive treatment, antibiotics, vitamin supplements and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed in certain cases. The main treatment is still physiotherapy.

Prevention of lymphedema after surgery

Doctors recommend that after surgeries such as removal of lymph nodes, the patient should start arm exercises slowly and avoid direct impact or pressure on the body. Weight control and healthy eating play an important role in prevention.

The difference between lymphedema and venous edema

In venous edema, the cause is a disturbance in the return of blood from the veins; But in lymphedema, the way to drain lymph fluid is blocked. Differential diagnosis is done with Doppler ultrasound.

Daily life with lymphedema

Patients can lead a normal life by following simple recommendations. Using the right shoes, resting by elevating the body and doing daily massage are some of the effective solutions.

Treatment of lymphedema with microscopic surgery

Using a microscope, surgeons create new lymphatic pathways to drain the accumulated fluid. This method is effective and less complicated in advanced cases.

Life expectancy in patients with lymphedema

Although lymphedema is a chronic disease, with regular treatment and a healthy lifestyle, patients can live a normal life and a completely normal lifespan. Awareness, care and regular follow-up is the key to controlling this disease.

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Final conclusion about lymphedema

Lymphedema is a chronic but controllable disease that can be prevented with awareness, timely diagnosis and regular treatment. This disease is caused by a disruption in the flow of lymphatic fluid, and if it is detected in the early stages, it can be well controlled with physiotherapy, lymphatic massage, skin care and proper nutrition. The most important point in the treatment of lymphedema is continuity and follow-up; Because a break in the treatment can cause swelling and skin damage to return.

The importance of awareness and medical follow-up

Many patients do not take the symptoms seriously in the early stages, while early diagnosis prevents the progression of the disease and preserves the quality of life. The patient's cooperation with the doctor, regular exercise and daily skin care are key factors in the long-term control of the disease.

Doctor's final speech

If you have swelling in your body after surgery, radiation therapy or even without a clear reason, it is better to consult a specialist doctor. Although lymphedema is a chronic disease, with proper treatment, it can be managed without significant pain and limitation. Awareness, prevention and daily care are the three main pillars for living a healthy and balanced life with this disease.

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