Lymphedema is a serious disease affecting the lymphatic system. There are a few causes, such as damage done to the lymph vessels or nodes following surgery or cancer treatment. It is also something that can be caused by abnormalities at birth. Although the most common symptom is swelling of the arms and legs near the affected nodes, there are a variety of other symptoms to look out for when you believe that you have developed lymphedema.

Swelling of the arms and legs is a major symptom of lymphedema. It's usually noticeable in areas of the body such as arms and legs where pants, bracelets, or watches, may begin to feel tighter. If jewelry begins to fit tighter, it can be easier to decide if you possibly have lymphedema because it does not change in size. If a watch or ring had always fit before but not is snug, it may be necessary to check with a doctor about other symptoms.

Along with the swelling, patients can also develop a full or heavy sensation. Because the lymph fluid is beginning to collect in the arms and legs, the skin can begin to feel tighter, and limps heavier. The fluid is not allowed to drain from these limbs due to the damage inflicted to the nodes and vessels, and they'll collect lymph fluid, making it feel heavier.

Though the swelling and weight are a few symptoms, patients often also will complain of stiffness and decreased range of motion in the extremities of the arms and legs. Decreased range of motion in the wrist, hands, and feet, is another one of the lymphedema symptoms to watch out for following surgery. Though, these symptoms individually don't specifically point to lymphedema, it may be prudent to schedule a visit with your doctor to have them diagnosed because they may be indicative of other conditions.

Another symptom to watch out for is thickening or hardening of the skin. With the collection of the lymph fluids in the arm, the skin may feel tight in addition to the swelling. Thickening of the skin results from the pressure of the fluids, and may make the limbs suffer from a dull ache.

If you begin to feel symptoms such as these following surgery, breast cancer treatment, or some other trauma to the arms or legs, you should consider scheduling an appointment with your doctor. Consistent swelling of the arms or legs is one of the lymphedema symptoms that doctors will look for first when diagnosing it, so if you have discomfort and swelling for extended periods of time, a doctor can begin treatment for your lymphedema after it has been fully diagnosed.