What is lymphedema and what causes it?

BOSTON - Dr. Mallika Marshall is answering your latest health questions. If you have a question, email her or message her on Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter).

Eileen submitted a question on Facebook.  She says, "I was diagnosed with lymphedema and was sent to therapy but I'm wondering what caused it. No one has told me." 

Lymphedema is characterized by swelling in the tissues, most commonly in the arms or legs, but it can occur in other parts of the body as well. 

In severe cases, it can reduce mobility and increase a patient's risk of infection. Any problem that blocks drainage of fluid in the lymphatic system can cause lymphedema. 

These conditions can include cancer if cancer cells or a tumor block lymph vessels, radiation treatment, or surgery. Older age, obesity, and certain types of arthritis can also increase the risk. Please ask your doctor why you may have developed it.

Mallika Marshall, MD

Mallika Marshall, MD is an Emmy-award-winning journalist and physician who has served as the HealthWatch Reporter for CBS Boston/WBZ-TV for over 20 years. A practicing physician Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Dr. Marshall serves on staff at Harvard Medical School and practices at Massachusetts General Hospital at the MGH Chelsea Urgent Care and the MGH Revere Health Center, where she is currently working on the frontlines caring for patients with COVID-19. She is also a host and contributing editor for Harvard Health Publications (HHP), the publishing division of Harvard Medical School.

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