What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Lymphedema?
Lymphedema can affect one or both arms or legs, or other areas such as the breast, chest, trunk, genitals, head, or neck. Symptoms vary between people, and early changes may occur before swelling is clearly visible.
Changes to Watch For
- Swelling that develops gradually or comes and goes.
- A feeling of heaviness, fullness, or tightness in the affected area.
- Clothing, shoes, rings, or watches fitting more tightly than usual.
- Skin feeling stretched or becoming firmer or thicker.
- Aching, discomfort, or pain.
- Stiffness or difficulty moving the affected area.
If you notice new or persistent changes, speak with a health professional. These symptoms can have several causes, so assessment is important.
Lymphedema can progress over time. Early assessment and appropriate management can help control symptoms, maintain function, and reduce complications.
Other Changes That Need Assessment
People with established or more advanced lymphedema may also experience:
- Persistent swelling and areas of firm or thickened tissue.
- Changes in skin texture, including rough areas, deeper folds, or small raised growths.
- Clear fluid leaking through the skin.
- Repeated skin infections.
- Increasing difficulty with movement or everyday activities.
A compression garment that becomes tighter, uncomfortable, or difficult to wear may also need reassessment.
What About Pain?
Many people living with lymphedema report pain. Its intensity and impact vary, and pain can have more than one contributor.
Swelling and tissue changes, strain on muscles and joints, nerve injury, treatment effects, and other health conditions may contribute. Some people also report burning or shooting sensations, tingling, or numbness. These symptoms deserve assessment rather than being automatically attributed to lymphedema.
Pain should be taken seriously. Understanding its contributors is an important part of care.
When Should I Seek Urgent Help?
Seek urgent medical assessment for sudden swelling, rapidly increasing swelling, or new severe pain. These changes can have causes other than lymphedema, including infection or a blood clot.
How Do I Recognize Cellulitis?
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues. People with lymphedema have an increased risk. It requires prompt medical treatment with antibiotics.
Signs can include:
- New or increasing warmth, tenderness, or pain.
- Increased swelling.
- Redness or another change from your usual skin colour. Redness may be less noticeable on darker skin.
- Feeling unwell, with symptoms such as fever, chills, or flu-like aches.
Not everyone develops a fever. Do not wait for all these signs to appear before seeking help.
If you suspect cellulitis, seek medical care promptly, ideally the same day. If you develop confusion, faintness, or rapid breathing, seek emergency care.
