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Lymphedema
Long-term swelling, usually of an arm or leg, caused by a build-up of lymph fluid when the lymphatic system is damaged or blocked.
Causes & risk factors
- Damage or removal of lymph nodes (e.g. after cancer surgery)
- Radiotherapy
- Infections such as filariasis (important in parts of India)
- Injury or repeated infections
- Rarely, inherited lymphatic problems
Common symptoms
- Swelling of a limb
- Heaviness or tightness
- Thickened or hardened skin
- Reduced movement
- Fever during skin infections
Tests & diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Lymphoscintigraphy
- Doppler ultrasound (to exclude clots)
- Blood tests
Treatment & management
- Compression garments and bandaging
- Manual lymphatic drainage massage
- Skin care to prevent infection
- Exercise to help fluid movement
- Surgery in selected severe cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- See a doctor for new or worsening limb swelling
- Seek urgent care for fever, redness and pain in the swollen limb (infection)
- Get assessed if swelling follows cancer treatment
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about lymphedema. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Can lymphedema be cured?
It cannot usually be cured but can be well controlled with compression, skin care and drainage therapy.
Is it linked to filariasis in India?
Yes — mosquito-borne filariasis is a notable cause of leg lymphedema in some regions.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.