Where can lymphoedema occur? A guide to affected body parts

Missing, malformed or damaged lymph vessels or lymph nodes cause a blockage of the lymphatic system. Unable to drain properly, the lymphatic fluid collects in the tissue, and results in swelling. Lymphoedema in legs is particularly common, especially due to obesity and treatment for cancer.

After breast cancer surgery, lymphoedema most frequently occurs as lymphoedema in the arm. As cancer cells spread through the lymph vessels into the lymph nodes first, many patients have at least 1-3 lymph nodes removed from under the arm (sentinel lymph node biopsy) or sometimes even more (axillary lymph node dissection). Radiation therapy is often part of the cancer therapy and can destroy the lymphatic system as well. In such cases, compression therapy is often recommended to manage swelling and support lymphatic drainage in the arm.

Complex/Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a comprehensive approach to managing lymphoedema, involving a combination of compression therapy, Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), skin care, exercise, and self-management. The exact combination of these treatments may vary depending on the location of the lymphoedema. CDT is a widely recommended treatment for all forms of lymphoedema.

After surgical procedures and therapies for cancer, oedema can develop at your chest/breast and at the chest wall. Unlike the legs, the breast does not have a muscle pump, making drainage in this area more difficult. Swelling often occurs around the affected breast, the chest wall, under the armpit, and at the back. The swollen areas may feel hot, painful, hard, and heavy. CDT helps to address these challenges. In such cases, special compression garments like Belisse or pads such as JOBST^® JoViPad or PitPak can be used to support softening of the fibrosis (thickened and hardened skin) and assist with lymph drainage in the breast and upper body.

Lymphoedema of the head and neck can develop after treatment of cancer by surgery and/or radiotherapy. The swelling can manifest externally on the face or neck, or internally in the oral cavity, larynx, or pharynx.

Typical areas where swelling might occur:

• Lips
• Cheeks
• Forehead
• Eye sockets
• Contour of the jaw
• Front or rear ear area
• Below the chin
• Neck

Again, CDT, is the recommended treatment approach to manage head and neck oedema. Specially developed solutions for the different parts of the face, such as JOBST^® JoViPak for head and neck, can be particularly helpful in supporting lymph drainage.  Swelling of the head and neck can be very stressful. If you are affected in this way, you may feel that you want to avoid being in the public and prefer to isolate yourself. In such a situation, it’s important to put your trust in a Healthcare Professional who can help you get appropriate treatment.

Swelling of the genitals is a possible side effect of pelvic surgery or radiotherapy in both women and men. These types of therapies are used to treat tumors of the genital region, such as the prostate, bladder, testicles, penis, cervix, ovaries, vulva, or rectum. Infections, including sexually transmitted diseases, can also damage the lymphatic system. Genital lymphoedema may also develop as primary lymphoedema or may be associated with obesity as secondary lymphoedema.

A typical symptom is painful swelling of the genital area. Sexual dysfunction and trouble with urination can occur as well. Swelling of the genitals is a very personal and sensitive issue, and it’s important to consult with your Healthcare Professional to discuss appropriate treatment options. Walking and finding appropriate clothing can be very difficult and your intimate relationships might be affected as well. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) and compression therapy with specially designed garments, bandages and pads – both key components of CDT – can help improve your symptoms.

Maintaining proper skin hygiene is essential for managing genital lymphoedema. In general, staying active is also important, although this is much more challenging with genital lymphoedema. Consult your Healthcare Professional for appropriate measures.

With all forms of lymphoedema, early treatment is crucial to improving the prognosis and preventing progression. By working closely with your Healthcare Professional and following a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and body part, you can manage the symptoms effectively. Surgery may also be considered in selected cases where other treatments have proven insufficient.