What happens if lymphatic vessels become blocked

Symptoms of infection include a streaky or blotchy red patch on the affected area. Other common symptoms include:. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask you about your medical history.

They may order imaging tests if they suspect lymphatic dysfunction. One possible test is a lymphangiogram , which is a type of X-ray that uses contrast dye to help show the path of your lymph nodes and lymph vessels more clearly. Your doctor may inject the dye into an area between your toes or in the groin area.

The X-ray images can reveal abnormalities in your lymphatic drainage system. An MRI may be used in place of traditional X-ray. The goals of treatment are to reduce swelling early and as much as possible and to retain range of motion and function of the affected area. Compression is an important treatment for lymphedema. Compressing the affected limb encourages the lymphatic fluids to move toward your torso and out of the arm or leg in a more normal pattern of circulation.

Wrapping your arm or leg firmly with an elastic bandage or wearing a compression garment keeps continuous pressure on the swollen area. This brings down the size of the limb, decreases stress on the skin, and improves mobility.

Compression garments are specially designed socks, stockings, or sleeves that have a snug fit over the swollen limb. Your doctor may suggest buying compression garments of a certain grade or level of compression.

The grade or level will depend on the severity of swelling. Standard compression garments are available at most pharmacies and drugstores. Levels of compression are measured in pressures of mm Hg millimeters of mercury. The more compression you need, the higher the pressure should be.

Gradient compression is most often recommended. It can be built into a slip-on stocking or sleeve or achieved through a self-applied wrap. Tighter, more narrow wrapping with lots of overlap starts at the further point. Looser, wider, and less overlap are done as the wrapping moves further up the limb. Shop for compression socks , stockings , or sleeves online. Another form of compression therapy is called pneumatic compression.

Pneumatic compression involves vests or sleeves that are timed to inflate and deflate to stimulate the proper flow of lymphatic fluid. Exercise can help manage lymphatic dysfunction. Your muscles contract during exercise, and these contractions put pressure on your lymph vessels.

This helps fluid move through the vessels and reduces swelling. Aim for 20 to 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Speak with your doctor before starting an exercise routine. This includes several components, some already mentioned above:. Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic drainage, is a type of massage therapy performed by a qualified lymphedema professional. Manipulating tissues allows the lymph fluids to drain more freely. How often manual lymphatic drainage is required depends on the severity, location of swelling, and how much movement of the area is tolerated.

It often starts out 5 days a week for 3 to 8 weeks, then is performed as frequently as necessary to maintain improvement. You can also receive training from a professional to do it at home.

The Food and Drug Administration FDA has approved low-level laser therapy for treating lymphedema related to breast cancer. Studies have found it can be effective in lessening swelling, pain, and size of the limb. A study found that it can decrease limb size and improve function, well-being, and quality of life. Lymphedema that happens along with a bacterial infection will be treated first with antibiotics. Editorial team. Doctors St. E-mail Form. Lymphatic obstruction Lymphedema. Radiation therapy Radiation therapy uses high-powered x-rays, particles, or radioactive seeds to kill cancer cells.

Cellulitis Cellulitis is a common skin infection caused by bacteria. Tumors A tumor is an abnormal growth of body tissue. Mastectomy A mastectomy is surgery to remove the entire breast. CT A computed tomography CT scan is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create pictures of cross-sections of the body. MRI A magnetic resonance imaging MRI scan is an imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create pictures of the body.

Lymphangiography A lymphangiogram is a special x-ray of the lymph nodes and lymph vessels. Liposuction Liposuction is the removal of excess body fat by suction using special surgical equipment. Chronic Chronic refers to something that continues over an extended period of time. Ulcers An ulcer is a crater-like sore on the skin or mucous membrane.

Open References. All Video Images Tog. Lymphatic system - illustration The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. Lymphatic system illustration. Yellow nail syndrome - illustration Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached onycholysis. Yellow nail syndrome illustration. A Closer Look. Self Care. Tests for Lymphatic obstruction.

Related Information. Cellulitis Condition. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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Luke's News. The surgeon must have a lot of experience with this type of procedure. You will still need physical therapy after surgery to reduce lymphedema. In rare cases, surgery to bypass abnormal lymph tissue using vein grafts is done. These procedures are most effective for early lymphedema and should be performed by an experienced surgeon. Lymphedema is a chronic disease that usually requires lifelong management.

In some cases, lymphedema improves with time. Some swelling is usually permanent. See your provider if you have swelling of your arms, legs, or lymph nodes that does not respond to treatment or go away. Most surgeons now use a technique called sentinel lymph node sampling to reduce your risk for lymphedema after breast cancer surgery.

However, this technique is not always appropriate or effective. Lymphedema risk reduction and management. Principles and Practice of Lymphedema Surgery. St Louis, MA: Elsevier; chap Rockson SG. Lymphedema: evaluation and decision making. Rutherford's Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy.