Lymphoedema

by katty
(egypt)

I am 21 years old. Two years ago I developed lymphoedema in the right foot only. In the beginning the oedema were in two legs but now its only in the right foot. If I elevate the foot, the size of oedema will decrease but if I walk without the compression stockings the oedema will be back. Doctors told me that I shouldn’t be worried about that and also told me that it is not as a result of any disease, but due to a weakness in my lymphatic vessels. I try not to wear the compression stockings, although I do wear them in an emergency, because they feel uncomfortable wearing them. Is there another alternative that can help me? I want more details knowing that I didnt have any problem in my foot before please help me.

About Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema can be either primary or secondary. It occurs due to the blocking off of lymph, the fluid that normally removes the waste products from cells and is most commonly seen in the legs.
Primary has no known cause and can be either congenital or acquired and can occur at any age.

The degree of lymphoedema can vary from one person to another. Secondary lymphoedema can occur due to leg injury, surgery or certain infections that can block the lymphatics such as Filariasis. Primary lymphoedema is the most common.

Unfortunately it is very difficult to treat. Surgery isnt very effective for this condition and compression bandages or stockings are the normal way of dealing with this. Massage can help as well as leg raising when sitting to help aid drainage. Care of the skin is important as it is quite easy to get an infection in the leg so a careful eye on the area and using emollients may help by keeping the skin supple.

A drug called Paroven has been used with variable results and you might like to discuss this with your doctor.