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Formerly known as California Oncology of the Central Valley Request an Appointment
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Formerly known as California Oncology of the Central Valley Request an Appointment

Lymphedema

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is chronic swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues. This occurs when lymph fluid is not circulating well throughout the body. Lymph vessels run alongside blood vessels, moving fluids around to manage volume and fight disease. Lymph nodes filter foreign materials to help fight infection.

Lymphedema Risk Factors

Lymphedema usually develops slowly, but primary risk factors for lymphedema may include:

  • Having active cancer
  • Receiving radiation therapy
  • Surgery that removes lymph nodes may also affect lymphedema

Treatment

This side effect cannot be prevented, but it can be treated if addressed early on. The treatment is called Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which consists of a variety of treatments tailored to what is best for each patient.

Signs & Symptoms of Lymphedema

  • Swelling in your abdomen or groin
  • Swelling that starts in your extremities (like hands and feet) and then moves up the arm or leg
  • Numbness, tingling, heaviness, or achiness in the arms, legs, or feet
  • Clothing or shoes feel tight
  • Unknown weight gain
  • Skin pitting (press a finger into the skin and an indentation remains)
  • Hardening of tissues in affected areas
  • Cellulitis or local infections of the skin
  • Redness of the extremities
  • Hyperkeratosis or thick calluses
  • Papillomas or wart-like growths

Stages of Lymphedema

Pre-Stage

Body begins having trouble moving lymphatic fluid, may start feeling some discomfort. Still treatable and reversible. Also called latency stage.

Stage I

No or very little swelling, swelling may come and go. Lymphedema may still be reversible.

Stage II

More swelling and fluid build-up, skin may feel tight and shiny. Tissue may form pits when pressed. Fluid can be moved out of the tissue, but not without outside help.

Stage III

Severe and prolonged swelling. Skin may feel hard or leathery, with a darker color and/or small bumps. Fluid is difficult to remove, but may be treated with intense outside help. Also called lymphostatic elephantitis.