Lymphedema Specialist

What is lymphedema?

Lymphedema is swelling caused by the buildup of lymph fluid in your soft tissue. Lymph fluid is produced by your lymphatic system and helps filter wastes and toxins from your body.

Your lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes that support your immune health. It filters bacteria and viruses and transports white blood cells to help your body fight off infections.

Lymphedema occurs when your lymphatic system can’t adequately move fluid through your body because of damage to or blockage of a lymphatic vessel or node.

Lymph fluid contains protein, fats, glucose, and other substances. When it collects in your soft tissue, it attracts bacteria and viruses, increasing your risk of infection.

What kinds of lymphedema are there?

There are two kinds of lymphedema: primary and secondary.

Primary lymphedema

Primary lymphedema is an inherited condition that prevents the lymphatic system from fully developing. This kind of lymphedema is rare. Its symptoms can appear at any age.

Secondary lymphedema

Secondary lymphedema is more common and is brought on by damage to the lymphatic system. Cancer treatment is one of the most common causes of the damage that leads to lymphedema.

Venous insufficiency is also a common cause of secondary lymphedema. Venous insufficiency affects the circulation in the veins in your legs. Poor circulation places additional strain on the lymphatic system, resulting in fluid leakage and swelling.

How is lymphedema diagnosed?

The providers at Sarasota Vascular Specialists are experts at diagnosing and treating vascular problems like lymphedema and venous insufficiency. Leg swelling is a common symptom of both.

If you come in with concerns about soft-tissue swelling and the team suspects lymphedema, they complete a thorough exam. In addition to reviewing your medical history and symptoms, the team also does a vascular ultrasound to examine your circulation and look for vascular damage.

How is lymphedema treated?

Your provider at Sarasota Vascular Specialists develops a personalized plan to treat your lymphedema. The plan is based on the underlying cause and how severe the symptoms are. The treatment focuses on reducing and preventing swelling.

Your plan can include:

• Getting regular exercise
• Wearing compression stockings or socks
• Losing weight
• Using a pneumatic pump (an inflatable sleeve you wear over your arm or leg to help circulate lymph fluid)

If you have venous insufficiency, the team can recommend procedures like sclerotherapy or endovenous ablation to treat the damaged veins and improve circulation in your legs.

To get help managing lymphedema, call Sarasota Vascular Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.