What is lymphedema and how is it different from venous edema becasue of varicose veins?

Lymphedema and venous edema can both cause leg swelling, but they have different causes and treatments. This page explains the key differences so you can better understand your symptoms and options in Dubai.

What is lymphedema and how is it different from venous edema becasue of varicose veins?

Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive condition caused by failure in the lymphatic system. It occurs when the lymph nodes or lymphatic vessels are damaged or underdeveloped, impairing lymph drainage. and they are unable to drain the lymphatic fluid effectively. This results in persistent and progressive swelling, most commonly in the arms or legs. Over time, the affected limb can become heavy and tight, and the skin may harden. Lymphedema could be a hereditary condition or could happen after treatments such as radiotherapy or surgery. 

Leg swelling because of varicose veins (venous edema), on the other hand, is caused by malfunctioning valves in the veins due to venous insufficiency. When these valves don't close properly, it causes pooling of the blood, increased pressure in the legs, leakage of the fluid into the surrounding tissue resulting in leg swelling or edema. This type of swelling typically worsens at the end of the day and improves by elevating the leg or wearing compression stockings. The swelling due to venous insufficiency can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as heaviness and tiredness of the legs at the end of the day, varicose veins or spider veins, and skin discolouration. 

Differentiating between lymphedema and venous edema is essential as their treatment might be different. 

The general management of lymphedema includes manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy and skin care. 

Varicose veins treatment in Dubai for venous edema include radiofrequency ablation, mechanochemical ablation with ClariVein® or VenaSeal®. The venous edema due to venous insufficiency is also managed by compression, however the type of compression and the degree of compression might differ from lymphedema. The compression options include compression socks, compression garments and compression bandages. 

Both conditions can coexist and many patients with lymphedema could also have venous insufficiency causing deterioration of leg swelling. 

Lymphedema is diagnosed by first excluding venous insufficiency and then performing lymphoscintigraphy. Being assessed by a board certified vascular surgeon ensures appropriate care.

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