Lymphedema

Lymphoedema is persistent swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid in the soft tissues. It most often affects an arm or a leg. Once established, it tends to be lifelong, so early recognition and good skin care matter.

Common causes

• After cancer treatment — surgery or radiation that removes or damages lymph nodes (commonly after breast, cervical, or prostate cancer).
• Filariasis — a mosquito-borne parasitic infection; a major cause of lymphoedema in parts of India.
• Repeated skin infections (cellulitis) that damage the lymph system.
• Obesity.
• Severe venous disease or chronic immobility.
• Rare inherited lymphatic disorders.

Symptoms

• Swelling that doesn't fully go away with rest or elevation.
• Heaviness, tightness, or reduced range of motion in the limb.
• Skin thickens, hardens or develops wart-like changes in long-standing cases.
• Repeated skin infections in the affected limb.

Care of a lymphoedema limb

• Skin hygiene — wash daily, moisturise, avoid cuts, insect bites and burns; any small cut deserves prompt care.
• Compression garments — prescribed sleeves or stockings are central to treatment.
• Decongestive physiotherapy — trained therapists use manual lymphatic drainage and bandaging.
• Exercise — gentle, regular movement (walking, limb exercises) actually helps, contrary to older advice.
• Weight control.
• Treat any infection early — red, warm, painful, feverish skin needs prompt antibiotics.

India-specific note

India's mass drug administration programme has substantially reduced new filariasis cases. People already living with filarial lymphoedema can still benefit greatly from daily skin care, limb exercises and compression — the damage doesn't reverse fully, but disability and infection rates drop sharply. Free morbidity-management services are available in many endemic districts.