Lymph At Home

03/18/2026

🦋Lymphedema Awareness Month Day #16

The Stages of Lymphedema: What Patients Experience

Lymphedema develops over time, and patients may experience different changes in their body as it progresses. Professionals describe it in stages, and while the numbering can vary, the stages reflect how swelling and tissue changes increase. Here’s what patients typically experience at each stage: 👇

Stage 0 – Latent Stage
• The lymphatic system is already damaged, but swelling may not be visible.
• Patients may feel heaviness, tightness, or fullness in a limb.
• This stage can last months or even years before swelling becomes noticeable.

Stage 1 – Early Lymphedema
• Swelling appears but may come and go, often reducing with rest or elevation.
• The tissue is soft, and pressing the skin may leave a temporary dent.
• Patients may notice their arm, leg, or affected area feels heavier than usual.

Stage 2 – Moderate Lymphedema
• Swelling becomes persistent and does not easily reduce with elevation.
• Tissue begins to feel firmer because fluid has stayed in the tissue longer.
• Patients may notice clothing or jewelry fitting differently and limited movement in the limb.

Stage 3 – Advanced Lymphedema
• Swelling is significant and chronic.
• Skin and tissue can become thickened or hardened.
• Patients may experience difficulty with mobility, frequent heaviness or discomfort, and higher risk of infections.

Important Notes: 🩵
• Some doctors and resources use a scale of 1–4 instead of 0–3. Both systems describe the same progression.
• Stage does not depend on the size of the limb. A smaller limb can still be at Stage 2 or 3 if the tissue changes and swelling are consistent with that stage.
• What matters most is recognizing the condition early and supporting patients with proper care to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Awareness is key. The more people understand lymphedema, the better we can support patients, promote early diagnosis, and reduce stigma.🩵🦋

03/06/2026

We have an amazing team, so thank you! 🦋 April Drugash Angela Sanders Rachel Kaelin Williams Jarrett Dottin

Lymphedema is a chronic condition causing swelling due to damage to or blockage of the lymphatic system. Today on , we join the National Lymphedema Network in recognizing the work of occupational therapy practitioners who help lymphedema patients thrive!

AOTA has long made lymphedema advocacy a priority—championing the role of OT in care, advocating to address payment issues, and working to enhance client access to compression garments and skilled OT services. Learn more about AOTA’s work in this space and join us in celebrating the practitioners advancing hope, healing, and independence for those living with lymphedema: https://bit.ly/4b8BPJ8

03/06/2026

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03/06/2026

So may are misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all- resulting in delayed care and chronic recurring complicated secondary complications! We hope to help change that for many people 🦋

Tomorrow is World Lymphedema Day.

From every corner of the globe, one message is clear: lymphatic diseases deserve attention, resources, and action.

On March 6, advocates, researchers, clinicians, and patients will unite to advance progress across the full spectrum of lymphatic diseases. Join us in making lymphatic health a global priority.

03/06/2026

💦March Is Lymphedema Awareness Month! 💦

🙋‍♀️ Help us raise awareness in March - share this post with a friend!

What is lymphedema - and why does awareness matter? Lymphedema is a chronic condition caused by damage or disruption to the lymphatic system, leading to swelling, often in the arms, legs, or other areas of the body.

While there’s no cure, early diagnosis, ongoing education, and the right support can make a life-changing difference.

This , learn how the National Lymphedema Network supports patients, caregivers, and clinicians through trusted education, access to resources, and a strong, connected community.

Because when each group is supported, care improves - and no one faces lymphedema alone.

➡️ Learn more about the mission of the NLN today and join us today: https://bit.ly/4jV8022

03/06/2026

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Today’s Lymph Fact

Today, give a little love to your lymphatic system! 💙

Did you know your lymphatic system moves roughly 3 liters of fluid through your body every single day? That’s like moving about 6.5 pounds of fluid silently while you go about your life.

Your body is working hard behind the scenes — respecting your lymphatic system means proper care, hydration, gentle movement, and awareness of swelling or pain.

Today, notice the invisible work your body does for you. 💙