What you Need to Know About Lymphedema

Your lymphatic system is part of your body’s immune system. Its network of tissues, vessels, and organs carries lymph fluid, nutrients, and waste materials between your body tissues and bloodstream to maintain a normal, healthy fluid balance.

Sometimes, due to heredity, a medical condition, or traumatic injury, your lymphatic system stops working as efficiently. Fluid builds up in your tissues, causing swelling and discomfort. This condition is called lymphedema.

Common stages of lymphedema

Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive condition. That means it cannot be cured, and often gets worse over time. However, when identified early and treated consistently, lymphedema can be managed effectively at home.

Doctors have identified four common stages of lymphedema. You can be diagnosed and treated at any stage.

Stage 0

You may not see swelling despite impaired lymphatic function. You may feel fatigue, pain, heaviness, tightness, or tingling in the affected area.

Stage 1

You’ll see swelling, but the area will return to normal size with rest, elevation, and/or compression. You may see some pitting of the skin, and when you apply pressure to the swollen area and release it, an indentation remains.

Stage 2

In addition to swelling, you start to see significant changes in the skin, as fibrosis, which is a hardening of tissue starts to develop. Your skin may also feel spongy.

Stage 3

Tissue in the affected area will have hardened, and you may also see additional changes in your skin. The limb may be misshapen, large, and more swollen, and the risk of infection increases.