Lymphedema and Other Conditions

Information to help the reader understand the relationship between lymphedema and other conditions that may be present at the same time.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency and Lymphedema

Chronic venous insufficiency and lymphedema are similar in that both conditions involve swelling — particularly of the lower legs. Beyond this similarity, their symptoms and treatment are different. Recognizing these differences is helpful in understanding how and why each condition is treated.

Congestive Heart Failure and Lymphedema

Lymphedema does not cause congestive heart failure; however, congestive heart can cause lymphedema to develop in the feet and legs. The heart condition must be under control before this lymphedema can be treated.

Diabetes and Lymphedema

When a diabetic also has lymphedema, this creates a double threat to the affected tissues and treating both conditions properly is essential.

Edema and Lymphedema Compared

It is important to understand the differences between edema and lymphedema. Although both conditions involve swelling, these conditions have very different causes and are treated differently.

Lipedema and Lymphedema

Lipedema, which is also known as painful fat syndrome, is an inherited condition affecting mostly women with abnormal accumulations of fat on the hips, thighs, and legs — but not the feet. The swelling stops at ankle. This condition is frequently confused with lower extremity lymphedema and both conditions are often present at the same time.

Lyme Disease Alert

Individuals with lymphedema are particularly susceptible to infections and it is essential that they be on the alert for earliest signs of conditions of Lyme disease which is now a threat in all of the 50 US states.

 

 

Lymphedema and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition characterized by pain, weakness, or numbness that affect the wrist. There are many causes of this condition, including lymphedema swelling of the affected arm.

Lymphedema and Lymphoma Contrasted

Lymphedema and lymphoma and both affect the lymphatic system; however, there are very important differences between conditions.

Obesity and Lymphedema

Obesity is a national epidemic of grave concern in the US. This condition is of even greater concern for many Lymph Notes readers since research indicates that obesity increases a patient’s risk of multiple health issues including lymphedema.

Peripheral Neuropathy and Lymphedema

Lymphedema does not cause peripheral neuropathy; however both conditions may be present at the same time. When peripheral neuropathy is present as a comorbidity it may be necessary to modify the lymphedema treatment.

Shingles -- Are you at Risk?

Shingles is a painful sin rash caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). This is the same virus that causes chickenpox an unpleasant disease many of us had as children. Usually the virus does not cause any further problems; however for about 25 percent of all healthy adults this virus can reappear years later (usually after age 40) causing the painful, tingling skin rash known as shingles.

Swollen Lymph Glands

The term “swollen glands,” should properly known as "swollen lymph nodes," because it refers to an abnormal enlargement of one or more lymph nodes. Swollen glands alone are not a symptom of lymphedema instead they are most commonly caused by an infection.

Total Knee Replacement and Lymphedema

A total knee replacement (TKR), also known as a total knee arthroplasty, may be necessary for those with lymphedema of the leg. Although research has shown that a significantly higher complication rate can usually be anticipated, the surgery can be performed successfully.