What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is when part of the body becomes swollen because extra fluid builds up. The lymphatic system normally moves this fluid back into the bloodstream, but when it doesn’t work well, the fluid stays in the tissues. This makes an arm, leg, or another area look puffy and feel heavy. It can’t be cured, but with proper care, the swelling can be managed.

You are not alone-your care team is here to help you feel better every day!

There Are 2 Kinds of Lymphedemas:

Primary lymphedema is when a person is born with it. This is when the body’s lymph vessels didn’t form right.

Secondary lymphedema can happen after an injury, infection, or surgery. This is when the body’s lymph vessels get hurt.

How Does Lymphedema Look or Feel?

Lymphedema can make the affected area look and feel swollen, tight, heavy, or sore.

Many people notice:

• Swelling in the arm, leg, or another body part.
• Skin feels tight and does not stretch easily.
• Heavy or uncomfortable feeling in the body part that has swelling.
• Pain or soreness when moving, especially if the swelling is larger.

How Can You Help the Lymphedema?

You can help manage lymphedema by keeping the skin healthy, preventing infection, and stopping swelling from getting worse. This also makes it easier to move, play, and stay active.

Keep your skin clean and healthy

• Wash the swollen area every day, including between fingers and toes.
• Use lotion to keep the skin soft and prevent dryness.
• Cover any cuts or scrapes right away with a clean bandage.

What to wear

• Wear special socks, sleeves, or stockings known as compression garments to help fluid move out of the swollen area.
• Avoid tight clothes or jewelry on the swollen arm, leg, or body part.

Move and exercise

• Activities like walking, swimming, or biking help the fluid move.
• Wear your compression garment while you move or exercise.

Gentle massage

• A trained lymphedema therapist can do a special light massage to help move the fluid. This is called lymphatic drainage.
• Families can learn a simple version of this gentle massage to use at home each day.

Who Else Can Help?

• Providers or nurses who check your health and guide your care.
• Lymphedema therapists who are trained in special massage and fitting compression sleeves or stockings.
• Physical or occupational therapists who teach safe exercises and ways to move more easily.
• Other specialists, such as skin specialists or counselors, if extra support is needed.

To learn more about Lymphedema review this KidsHealth resource.