The human body’s lymphatic system consists of a network of lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and organs that perform various immune functions. The lymph vessels, in particular, carry lymph fluids in the circulatory system to fight infections and filter foreign objects. Lymphedema is a condition characterized by a buildup of these fluids in the lymph vessels, resulting in swelling and blockage in the area. Here are its common causes, signs, and treatment options.

Primary causes and risk factors
Most causes and risk factors of lymphedema are linked to external triggers, certain underlying health complications, or genetic predispositions:

Exposure to radiation
Doctors sometimes suggest radiation therapy to treat aggressive forms of cancer by limiting the rapid mutation of cells. However, the risk of lymphedema increases when radiation is supplied close to the lymph nodes that are a part of the lymphatic system. It can damage nearby lymph nodes, leading to the buildup of lymph fluid.

Surgery
Surgical removal of the lymph nodes due to the aggressive spread of cancer is among the significant risk factors of lymphedema. Tumors growing near the lymph nodes can block the flow of fluids within the system, resulting in an imbalance.

Underlying health conditions
Existing cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, eczema, and other complications are common risk factors for the condition.

Genetic mutations
Specific preexisting genetic traits can result in the mutation of genes linked to the lymphatic system, increasing the risk.

Parasitic infections
Particular parasites found in nature invade the circulatory system, triggering an infection and affecting one’s immunity. This happens because the lymph nodes responsible for filtering out foreign objects fail to work.

Physical trauma
Traumatic injuries, both internal and external, stress the body, making it vulnerable to external triggers of lymphedema.

Signs and symptoms
Lymphedema develops silently but triggers various discomforts with every stage of disease progression. Here are some early warning signs to look out for:

Swelling of tissues
Swelling is one of the most common symptoms visible around the breasts, chest, shoulder, arms, or legs. Depending on the severity of the condition, the swelling can worsen and spread to nearby organs.

Skin problems
Visible changes on the surface of the skin are the next signs to look out for. Scarring of tissue, redness, and a sensation of heat indicate the infection’s spread. One might also experience their skin becoming taut and tight, causing pain with movement.

Dull aching pain
Skin sensitivity due to swelling and inflammation can trigger a persistent dull aching pain in a particular area. One may also develop new tingling sensations and numbness in one or more body parts. Pain is also coupled with a feeling of heaviness that affects one’s daily routine.

Reduced flexibility
Motor skills are also affected as the condition progresses, making moving the wrists, arms, and shoulders difficult. The major joint groups become stiff, leading to reduced, painful movements. Consequently, the most basic tasks like picking up objects, walking, and moving things around are affected.

Fibrosis
Lymphedema can trigger fibrosis, a condition that results in the hardening and thickening of skin cells. Fibrosis further reduces one’s range of mobility.

Fluid buildup
One of the most essential functions of the lymphatic system is to regulate the fluid balance in the body’s cells and tissue. Lymphedema disrupts the system’s natural ability to drain excess fluids and triggers a buildup of liquids that cause the tissues and cells to swell.

Treatment and management
Lymphedema cannot be cured at any stage. But specialists prescribe treatments and remedies to make living with the disorder more manageable. Here are a few options they may recommend:

Compression garments and devices
Compression garments gently press the affected areas, promoting the circulation of fluids. They prevent a buildup that can lead to swelling and inflammation of the limbs. For more severe symptoms, doctors suggest devices that use compressed air to apply pressure on the skin at regular intervals. This type of treatment is called sequential pneumatic compression.

Manual drainage
Doctors perform a manual drainage procedure to relieve the swelling if excess fluids accumulate in the limbs. It is suitable only for those who do not have a risk of developing an infection or blood clots in the area.

Exercises
Patients can promote fluid movements within the lymph sections by performing gentle expansion and contraction exercises taught by a physiotherapist. One can also hire a trained physiotherapist to perform gentle massages to relieve pressure and prevent swelling of limbs.

Surgery
Surgical transplant of lymph nodes, grafting new drainage paths, and removing fibrosis tissue are only suggested for patients with severe lymphedema.