Lymphoedema is characterised by the swelling of a limb, such as an arm or leg, or other part of the body. This swelling is caused by the excess collection of fluid in the affected body part due to a disruption in the normal flow of lymph drainage in the lymphatic system

Over time this swelling can worsen and if left untreated, can lead to loss of movement and make your skin much more likely to develop an infection.

Other signs of lymphoedema can include a feeling of heaviness or tightness, difficulty moving and aching or discomfort.¹

There are two different types of lymphoedema:

• Primary lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic vessels or nodes are poorly developed due to a congenital abnormality.
• Secondary lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system is damaged from surgical removal of lymph nodes, and/or cancer treatments such as radiation therapy.

Other causes can include cancer, trauma, infection, obesity and immobility.

There is currently no cure for lymphoedema, however there are many treatment programs that can help you to reduce swelling and your risk of complications, and teach you techniques on how to self-manage your lymphoedema at home.

1. Lymphoedema. (n.d). HealthXchange. Retrieved on 5 June 2019 from https://www.healthxchange.sg/cancer/coping-tips/lymphatic-drainage-massages-reduce-swelling