# What is lymphedema and what are its symptoms? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hiya-al-wathma-al-limfiya-wa-ma-hiya-a3radha Language: en Category: oncology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.319Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.319Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-hiya-al-wathma-al-limfiya-wa-ma-hiya-a3radha Lymphedema is a chronic swelling condition that occurs as a result of lymph fluid accumulation in the body's soft tissues, typically between the skin and muscles. This accumulation happens when the lymphatic system, which is responsible for collecting and transporting lymph fluid and fighting infection, becomes damaged or blocked. This damage can affect the lymph nodes or lymph vessels, obstructing the normal flow of lymph fluid and leading to swelling [\[1\]](). Although lymphedema cannot be completely prevented, there are ways to reduce the risk of developing it or prevent it from worsening. Once it develops, it is a chronic, incurable condition, but it can be managed to reduce swelling and improve the ability to perform daily activities. Lymphedema is easier to manage when treatment is started early, so it is recommended to contact your doctor as soon as you notice any signs such as heaviness or swelling [\[2\]](). ## Causes of Lymphedema Lymphedema occurs when something obstructs or alters the flow of lymph fluid in the body. It is often linked to cancer and its treatments, as these treatments can cause lymphedema in the following cases: - If the cancer or tumor itself blocks the flow of lymph fluid [\[1\]](). - If surgery to treat the cancer disrupts the flow of lymph fluid [\[1\]](). - If radiation therapy causes scar tissue to form that obstructs the flow of lymph fluid [\[1\]](). The risk of developing lymphedema depends on the type of cancer, its location, and the treatments the patient receives. Other risk factors include infection, slow healing after surgery, lymph node removal, previous surgeries or radiation therapy, advanced cancer, or being overweight or obese [\[2\]](). ## Symptoms of Lymphedema Lymphedema symptoms can appear in any part of the body, but they most often affect an arm or a leg. Signs and symptoms may develop slowly over time, so it is important to pay attention to any subtle changes. You should contact your doctor if you notice any of these signs [\[1\]](): - **A feeling of heaviness, fullness, or tightness:** In the area that underwent surgery or radiation therapy [\[1\]](). - **Swelling:** Pressure on the swollen area may leave an indentation in the skin in the early stages, but as lymphedema worsens, the pressure may not leave an indentation [\[2\]](). - **Numbness or tingling:** In the affected area, with discomfort increasing as lymphedema progresses [\[1\]](). - **Skin discoloration and hardening:** In people with long-term, untreated lymphedema [\[1\]](). For more information on managing chronic swelling and improving quality of life, you can visit the page: [Lymphedema: Managing Chronic Swelling and Improving Quality of Life (Arabic)](). ## Complications of Lymphedema: Cellulitis Cellulitis is a potentially life-threatening bacterial skin infection and is a common complication of lymphedema. People with lymphedema are more susceptible to cellulitis because the skin in swollen areas is thin and stretched, making it easier for bacteria to enter, which thrives in the fluid-rich areas of the body [\[1\]](). Some signs and symptoms of cellulitis overlap with those of lymphedema. Symptoms of cellulitis include: pain, tenderness, redness, swelling in the affected area, a feeling of warmth when touching the skin in the swollen area, and fever [\[2\]](). If you have a fever or other signs of cellulitis, contact your doctor immediately, as the doctor can prescribe antibiotics to treat this condition [\[1\]](). ## Medical references - [Lymphedema]() - [Lymphedema]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hiya-al-wathma-al-limfiya-wa-ma-hiya-a3radha#answer