What it is
It cannot be cured, but it can be controlled.
Skin care, compression garments, exercise and special massage (manual lymphatic drainage) help reduce swelling. Cellulitis is a common complication.
Common signs
- Swelling in part of the body, usually an arm or leg
- A heavy, tight or aching feeling
- Difficulty moving the limb
- Hardening of the skin
- Repeated skin infections
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination and measuring the limb
- Scans, sometimes
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Limb measurements over time
- Lymphoedema clinic letters
- Compression garment prescriptions
- Notes on episodes of cellulitis
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which compression garment should I wear?
- How can I reduce the risk of infection?
- Is there a lymphoedema clinic nearby?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A swollen limb that becomes red, hot and painful with fever: get urgent medical help, it may be cellulitis
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.