What causes lymphedema without cancer?

Parasites. In developing countries in the tropics, the most common cause of lymphedema is infection with threadlike worms that clog the lymph nodes.

Is lymphedema always cancer?

Sometimes lymphedema is not related to cancer or its treatment. For instance, a bacterial or fungal infection or another disease involving the lymphatic system may cause this problem.

Can lymphedema just go away?

Lymphedema can’t be cured, but you can control the swelling and keep it from getting worse. Getting to and staying at a healthy weight may make it better, but “water pills” usually won’t. Specialized lymphedema therapists can also help you manage the condition.

What is benign lymphedema?

Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that your immune system is fighting off infection or illness. Swollen lymph nodes are more likely to be benign than malignant. Benign means the lymph nodes don’t contain cancer cells. Malignant means they do contain cancer cells.

What can be mistaken for lymphedema?

For many patients, lipedema may be misdiagnosed as Lymphedema. For doctors unfamiliar with lipedema, these two disorders can look very similar. A misdiagnosis results in frustration for the patient who undergoes treatment for Lymphedema with poor results.

Can you suddenly develop lymphedema?

The symptoms of lymphedema can be sudden onset or appear over time. In addition to swelling or discomfort in the area of the blockage, symptoms of lymphedema include: Numbness or a tight feeling around the swollen area.

Can you live a normal life with lymphedema?

Lymphoedema may not prevent you from continuing with your usual lifestyle and activities. However, you may need to modify some aspect of your life if these involve a lot of activity, or inactivity, of a swollen limb. Try to continue with your life as normally as possible but listen to your body.

What is the difference between lymphedema and lymphoedema?

Key takeaways. Lipoedema is a chronic disorder of fat metabolism and distribution which usually manifests as a disproportional amount of fat stored on the lower half of the body. Lymphedema is an excess build-up of fluid in the arms or lower legs.

What do non cancerous lymph nodes feel like?

Swollen lymph nodes are often painless, moveable, and have a soft, “rubbery” feel to them, says Eric Jacobsen, MD, clinical director of the Adult Lymphoma Program at Dana-Farber.

How do I know if I have lymphedema or fat?

Differences between lipoedema and lymphoedema In contrast to those with lipoedema, people with lymphoedema will find that: their feet (or hands) are affected. the degree of swelling is not the same if both legs or both arms are affected – one limb is more swollen than the other.