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- Lymphoedema is an accumulation of protein rich fluids in the spaces between the cells due to the inability of the lymphatics to remove it. The fluid in the tissues, which behaves like a stagnant swamp, means most of the cells which are immersed in it cannot function as well as they used to so they do not carry out any of their normal tasks.
- Without the waste removal abilities of the macrophages, the tissues become clogged and other cells also stop working. The fluid and protein accumulation worsens and soon you can see a greater difference in the size of your limb. The swelling is a problem confined to the skin and other tissues above the muscles. If the problem remain untreated for a long time, the fluid will gradually be replaced by rather hard, dense tissue called fibrous tissue. This tissue can be likened to the sinewy material you often find in a piece of steak. Once this occurs it’s more difficult to treat, Repeated infections may also lead to the deposition of this fibrous tissue, thus the importance of dealing with these rapidly.
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- Any swelling you get, whether it is in a small area (genital area) or large one (such as a whole leg) , is a sign that the lymphatic system is not working properly and that some action or treatment should be started to try and help it regain its function.
- Another situation which may make the limb swell (but is not really a true lymphoedema) is when your heart if not working properly and/or your blood pressure is high. In these cases often there is nothing wrong with the lymphatic system. This type of swelling is more correctly called an oedema and not a lymphoedema. However the 2 conditions can occur together and their outward appearance can be the same.
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Lymphoedema 
