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Lymphedema

Lymphedema can develop slowly and often leads to long-term discomfort, swelling, and limited mobility. It affects different areas of the body depending on the underlying cause, and symptoms may shift or worsen with time.

At the Vein Care Center, we provide evaluation and care for lymphedema patients throughout Lima, Celina, and northwest Ohio. Dr. Manu B. Aggarwal and her team bring advanced vascular and lymphatic expertise to our local facility, which is recognized as one of the few accredited Vein Centers in Ohio. When you come to us, we will give you comprehensive care by identifying contributing factors and managing symptoms to help reduce swelling and improve function.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema, also known as lymphatic obstruction, occurs when fluid builds up in the soft tissue due to dysfunction within the lymphatic system. This system is responsible for supporting the immune system by removing toxins and foreign substances from the body. Lymph vessels carry excess fluid to the lymph nodes, where the harmful substances are filtered out, and the clean fluid can be recirculated through the bloodstream. When the lymph nodes or vessels become damaged or are removed due to cancer treatment or other circumstances, it can lead to a fluid buildup.

There are two types of lymphedema: primary and secondary. Primary lymphedema is caused by inherited problems in the lymphatic system, while secondary lymphedema develops from another condition, such as surgery, radiation, infection, or injury. Both forms interfere with the body’s ability to circulate lymph fluid, leading to long-term swelling and tissue changes.

How Is Lymphedema Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of lymphedema is a process that begins with a physical examination and a discussion of your medical history. Imaging tests may also be ordered to detect any disruptions or abnormalities in the lymphatic system. Once the condition is diagnosed, it may also be classified based on its severity. This classification will help us to know which treatment is needed to resolve the swelling and manage the symptoms. The classification includes the following stages:

01 /
Stage 0

Also called the latent stage, this phase may have no visible swelling, but you might notice a feeling of heaviness, tightness, or mild aching in the limb.

02 /
Stage 1

This mild stage of lymphedema might include swelling that comes and goes, as well as some early changes in the tissue you might notice if you press down on the area.

03 /
Stage 2

In this stage, swelling becomes constant and does not go away with elevation. The tissue may feel firm or spongy, and signs of skin inflammation often begin to appear.

04 /
Stage 3

During the severe phase, you will see ongoing fluid retention, permanent skin changes, and loss of motion in the limb.

What Causes Lymphedema? 

Lymphedema can become present at any time throughout a person’s lifetime, and the medical community has yet to pinpoint the exact cause. However, there are specific risk factors that can make you more likely to develop this condition. People who have been through cancer treatment are much more likely to develop lymphedema due to how the therapy impacts the lymphatic system. Genetics may also pose a risk as the condition may run in families. It might also explain in some part why the disorder is occasionally present at birth.

Two hereditary diseases might contribute to the onset of lymphedema. The first of these is Milroy disease, which causes the structures of the lymphatic system to develop abnormally. The second is Meige disease, although the genetic link for this condition has not yet been identified.

Beyond these factors, you could be more prone to lymphedema if you are:

  • In the middle to later years of life
  • Very overweight or obese
  • Diagnosed with psoriatic or rheumatoid arthritis

What Are the Symptoms of Lymphedema?

The symptoms of lymphedema will vary somewhat, based on the severity of the condition. These symptoms might appear soon after the lymphatic system has been affected by injury or other factors, or many months or years after the initial event. Some of the symptoms you might notice include:

  • Swollen limb or portion of the limb
  • Feeling of heaviness or tightness in the arm or leg
  • Restricted range of motion in the affected limb
  • Deformity of the limb in severe cases
  • Aching, tingling, or discomfort in the affected limb
  • Swelling in other areas, including the head and neck
  • Changes in the skin, including hardening and discoloration
  • Recurring skin infections
  • Significant fatigue that affects your daily function

Treatment Options for Lymphedema

Managing lymphedema focuses on reducing swelling, relieving discomfort, and improving function in the affected area. While there is currently no cure for lymphedema, our care helps prevent the condition from progressing and reduces the risk of complications. We offer a range of options based on the severity and location of the swelling, including:

01 /
Compression stockings or bandaging

These help move lymph fluid out of the affected limb by applying steady pressure. Dr. Aggarwal will take measurements to make sure the fit is correct for your needs.

02 /
Exercise

Light movements that gently contract your muscles can support lymph fluid drainage. Dr. Aggarwal may suggest specific exercises that target the affected area and help reduce swelling.

03 /
Pneumatic compression

This treatment uses a sleeve that inflates in cycles to apply pressure and move fluid out of the limb. It can help shift fluid away from the hand or foot and back into normal circulation.

04 /
Manual lymph drainage (MLD)

A trained specialist performs this light, rhythmic massage to move fluid through the lymphatic system. It’s a gentle technique, more like brushing the skin than traditional massage, and requires specific expertise.

05 /
Complete decongestive therapy (CDT)

This combines multiple approaches like exercise, compression, and MLD into one comprehensive plan. CDT is typically used for more advanced lymphedema, and Dr. Aggarwal may also guide you in recognizing symptoms of infection and other long-term management strategies.

Lymphedema Treatment at the Vein Care Center

If you’re dealing with lymphedema, early care can help reduce swelling and protect your long-term mobility. At the Vein Care Center, we offer focused treatment plans for patients in Lima, Celina, Auglaize County, and throughout northwest Ohio. Dr. Manu B. Aggarwal is a board-certified family physician who is venous and lymphatic medicine-certified and aesthetic laser-certified, with extensive experience in vascular conditions like lymphedema.

To learn more or schedule an evaluation, contact us or call (419) 227-4472. We’re here to support your care with the expertise and resources you need.

The information about lymphedema was reviewed by Dr. Manu B. Aggarwal. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using our contact form below.

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