What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is another word for chronic oedema (swelling) just under the skin which has been present for over three months.
Lymphoedema in particular is a failure of the lymphatic system which carries fluid (lymph) from the body’s tissues, through lymph nodes and back to the central bloodstream. This leads to a build up of protein-rich fluid just under the skin. It most commonly affects the arms or legs but other regions of the body can also be affected.
The lymphatic system has two main functions:
- Move lymphatic fluid from the tissues back to the general circulatory system
- Immunity: protect the body against infections and remove waste products
Lymphoedema can result from damage to the lymphatic vessels and/or lymph nodes (secondary lymphoedema). Less commonly, a person may be born with an incomplete or slow lymphatic system (primary lymphoedema).
In Australia the most common cause of lymphoedema is after some cancer treatments but there are other numerous causes such as recurrent skin infections, vein disease (varicose veins), obesity, immobility. Outside of Australia, mainly in sub-tropical regions, a major cause is Filariasis which is caused by a parasitic filarial worm which is transmitted through mosquito bites.
Early signs of lymphoedema include a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected area.
This lymphoedema clinic in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne provides care for people with both primary or secondary lymphoedema.If you are worried about any unexplained oedema you may want to see your doctor first as there are a number of investigations to help with diagnosis and management. Early intervention will help to prevent long term complications so an early assessment by a lymphoedema therapist is recommended.
