Lymphedema is the abnormal buildup of fluid in soft tissue due to a blockage in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system helps fight infection and other diseases by carrying lymph fluid containing bacteria, protein, and waste products away from the tissues. Normally, lymph nodes filter fluid as it flows through them, trapping bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances, which are then destroyed by special white blood cells called lymphocytes. bacteria and other harmful substances out of this fluid. However, when the lymph nodes or lymphatic vessels are removed or damaged, a blockage may develop. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and the fluid buildup leads to swelling.

Most often, lymphedema affects the arms and legs, particularly in people who have received treatment for breast cancer or cancers that affect the gynecological system, urinary tract, bladder, kidneys, prostate, testicles, and penis (genitourinary cancers). However, lymphedema can also occur in other parts of the body, including the head and neck. For people receiving cancer treatment to the head and neck region, the neck is the most common site of lymphedema, but it may also develop below the chin, in the face, and, less often, inside the mouth. Lymphedema may develop immediately after surgery or radiation therapy, or it may occur months or even years after cancer treatment has ended.

Primary lymphedema can be present at birth or develop during puberty or adulthood. The cause of primary lymphedema is not known.

Lymphedema signs and symptoms include:

• Swelling of part or all of your arm or leg, including fingers or toes
• A feeling of heaviness or tightness
• Restricted range of motion
• Aching or discomfort
• Recurring infections
• Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)

The swelling caused by lymphedema ranges from mild, hardly noticeable changes in the size of your arm or leg to extreme changes that make the limb hard to use. Lymphedema caused by cancer treatment may not occur until months or years after treatment.

There’s no cure for lymphedema. But it can be managed with early diagnosis and diligent care of your affected limb.

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