18/08/2025
How do you know if it's edema or lymphedema?
Overview
Does lymphedema need to be treated?
Lymphedema ...
Lymphedema and edema are both conditions involving fluid buildup in tissues, but lymphedema is a specific type of edema resulting from lymphatic system dysfunction, while edema is a more general term for swelling. Key differences include the cause (lymphatic vs. other), the duration (chronic vs. acute), and the response to elevation (little to no improvement in lymphedema).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Edema:
General term: Edema is a broad term for swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation in body tissues.
Causes:
Edema can stem from various issues like heart failure, kidney problems, vein issues (venous insufficiency), or prolonged standing.
Duration:
Edema can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
Response to elevation:
Elevation often helps reduce swelling caused by edema.
Lymphedema:
Specific type of edema: Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system, which normally drains fluid from tissues, is damaged or blocked, leading to fluid buildup.
Causes:
Lymphedema can be primary (congenital) or secondary (caused by damage from surgery, radiation, infection, or cancer).
Duration:
Lymphedema is typically a chronic condition.
Response to elevation:
Elevation usually provides little to no relief from lymphedema swelling.
Other characteristics:
Lymphedema can cause skin changes like thickening or hardening, and in advanced cases, may lead to limb deformity.
Key distinctions for diagnosis:
Stemmer's sign:
Inability to pinch and lift a skinfold at the base of the second toe or middle finger is a positive Stemmer's sign, indicating lymphedema.
Skin changes:
Lymphedema can cause skin thickening, hardening, and changes in texture, while venous insufficiency may lead to skin discoloration and ulcers.
Response to treatment:
Lymphedema swelling often doesn't respond to elevation or diuretics as much as edema does.
Difference in pain :
Edema is usually relieved with elevation while lymphedema (in most patients ) is an ongoing intense pain and some severe.
Take care of your body to prevent risk! If you have swelling PLEASE ask the doctor to test for lymphedema as well , otherwise , they typically will not 😭
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.