Lymphedema

Overview

Lymphedema refers to swelling caused by abnormalities of your lymphatic system. Lymphedema usually occurs in one of your arms or legs, but it can occur in other areas of your body. Some people have lymphedema that occurs on its own, but usually the condition develops because the lymphatic system is injured by surgery, trauma, infection or radiation treatment.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for lymphedema

• Experience. Mayo Clinic doctors trained in physical medicine and rehabilitation, blood vessel conditions (vascular medicine), blood vessel surgery (vascular surgery) and other areas have experience treating people who have lymphedema.
• Team approach. Mayo Clinic doctors work together to evaluate and treat people who have lymphedema.
• Individualized treatment. Mayo Clinic doctors and therapists work with you to reduce the swelling in your limbs, develop your individualized lymphedema treatment program and arrange for your follow-up care.
• Diagnostic tests. Mayo Clinic doctors use many tests to determine the cause of your swelling and evaluate your condition. Tests may include lymphoscintigraphy, magnetic resonance imaging, computerized tomography and others.

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At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

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Read more about diagnosis and treatment of lymphedema.

Related book: Mayo Clinic Healthy Heart for Life! book provides an easy-to-follow plan to prevent and conquer heart disease.