What Causes Lymphedema in Adults?

Lymphedema in adults causes an excessive buildup of fluid in the extremities. The condition occurs when the lymphatic system suffers some form of damage and can no longer successfully drain the fluid from the region. Many things can lead to lymphedema by impacting the lymphatic system, such as infection (cellulitis), trauma, radiation therapy, certain cancers such as leukemia, surgery, heart disease, lack of activity, and genetics.

The board-certified surgeons at Vitality Vein Care in Prosper and Allen, TX also treat patients with lymphedema throughout Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Celina, Gunter, Aubrey, Little Elm, and Pilot Point. If you believe you have lymphedema, we encourage you to contact our healthcare team to schedule a consultation to determine if you do indeed suffer from the condition. Upon diagnosis, our surgeons will discuss treatment options.

Symptoms of lymphedema

The symptoms of lymphedema can differ between individuals due to the underlying cause, the location of the swelling, and the extent of the disorder. When your body’s lymphatic system fails to function properly, fluid will build up in tissues beneath your skin’s surface.

Common symptoms of lymphedema include:

• Swelling in the arms, legs, or ankles

• Aching

• Tingling

• Numbness

• A feeling of heaviness

• Tight sensation

• Limited range of motion

Swelling in the legs, ankles, or arms can all indicate lymphedema. In some cases of lymphedema, you will not have extreme swelling but only puffiness or occasional swelling. You might also exhibit blisters in the swollen area.

The board-certified specialists at Vitality Vein Care in Prosper and Allen, TX will diagnose the condition by evaluating your physical condition and asking about your medical history. They may order additional testing to determine the exact cause of the swelling. The healthcare team will then focus on developing a treatment plan so you can get back to enjoying your life.

Lymphedema treatment options

Lymphedema is a chronic condition with no cure, but many treatment options can help you live a normal life by reducing and preventing swelling. The best treatment results are typically gained when the diagnosis is made early.

Once our surgeons diagnose lymphedema, they will collaborate with you to develop your tailored treatment plan.

Common lymphedema treatment options include:

• Compression garments such as socks, wraps, and sleeves.

• Lymphedema medications and supplements will decrease enlargement in the legs or arms and help prevent future swelling.

• Manual lymphatic drainage massage moves the fluid from the legs and pushes it in the natural direction so the lymphatics channels can effectively drain it.

• Correct the venous problem to reduce the swelling.

• Exercises that focus on specific muscles to help the drainage of the lymph system.

If you suffer from lymphedema, exercise is usually not sufficient to get rid of the condition. Lifestyle changes will better encourage your lymphatic system to drain but you’ll usually also need additional treatment options to remove and prevent the swelling. After a health assessment, our team of specialists will make treatment recommendations.

Schedule a Lymphedema consultation in Prosper and Allen, TX today

Have you been experiencing swelling of the extremities but do not know the cause of the lymphedema? If so, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our lymphedema specialists to determine the cause of the swelling and explore treatment options. We treat patients throughout Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Celina, Gunter, Aubrey, Little Elm, and Pilot Point, TX. Contact us to learn more.