Ever Wondered What Causes Lymphedema? Here are a Few Insights for You

Lymphedema is a condition that involves the accumulation of excessive fluids in your soft tissue. The swelling may occur in your legs and arms, restricting motion. You can have problems with mobility if the condition affects you. The disease is commonly caused by either damage or removal of the lymph nodes and impairment of the lymphatic vessels. You require a specialist to diagnose this condition as soon as you suspect some symptoms associated with it. If you are experiencing any symptoms relating to the condition, visit Tamarac lymphedema specialists at Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA.

Below are the causes of both primary and secondary lymphedema.

What are the Causes of Primary Lymphedema?

This type of lymphedema is rare and can only be inherited. Some people are born with this rare condition which affects the development of lymph vessels. Several conditions that cause primary lymphedema include;

• Milroy disease. This disorder begins when one is an infant and causes the formation of the lymph nodes to be abnormal.
• Meige disease. This disorder occurs at puberty or can present itself at a later age and causes lymphedema. At times it may occur during pregnancy.
• Late on lymphedema. This condition normally presents later in life from the age of 35.

All the above conditions are the causes of primary lymphedema. However, these conditions are scarce and only affect an estimate of 1 in every 6,000 people.

What are the Causes of Secondary Lymphedema?

This is the most common type of lymphedema and may be developed at any age. Patients with this condition may experience some symptoms such as swollen limbs, tight skin, fluid leaking through the skin, and repeated skin infection. Below are some causes of secondary lymphedema

• Surgery for cancer. Cancer treatment may involve the removal of parts of your lymphatic system. There is a high risk of lymphedema occurring. Patients with breast, skin, gynecological, genitourinary cancer are at an increased risk of getting lymphedema.
• Radiotherapy. The treatment of radiotherapy involves the use of radiation to destroy the cancer tissue. If radiotherapy is needed to destroy cancerous tissue or cells in your lymphatic system, the risk of developing a lymphatic issue is high.
• Immobility. Reduced movement can trigger secondary lymphedema. This happens when muscles surrounding the lymphatic vessel are not able to massage fluid into the system. You should ensure you exercise and move around to aid in activating these muscles.
• Infection. You can also get lymphedema triggered by an infection. Infections such as cellulitis and filariasis are the most common ones that cause lymphedema. They affect the lymphatic system limiting its functionality.

These are just some of the causes of secondary lymphedema. It is not advisable to ignore if you experience symptoms of lymphedema. You can prevent the disease severity by visiting a doctor near you.

Contact a Lymphedema Specialist Today

Lymphedema is a condition that can affect your self-esteem and mobility. The cancer health treatment options might have caused it, but it is manageable. All you need to do is to engage a specialist who will diagnose your situation and suggest the necessary treatment.

If you have lymphedema conditions, contact Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA today and book an appointment with them. Their team will guide you through the treatment options. You will be surprised by the treatment results.