Hello, I have unwanted facial hair. Is there any evidence laser treatment (Milan Laser) can cause lymphedema in my face? Ty

Greetings, As we know filariasis lymphedema is a condition where a worm grows inside of the lymphatic system and causes destruction of the healthy vessels and nodes. The question is : will this condition continue to progress and spread allover the body or will it be limited in one limb?

Greetings,  My sister is suffering from lowerl imb  filariasis lymphedema for more than 10 years now, I was wondering if there any possibility that she can benefit from Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) or is there any other drug can help her? Iam a physiotherapist and iam helping her with the decongestive treatment.  Regards Sarvat Abulmagd

i have lymphatic edema in both legs and feet the cause is venous inconclusiveness. I have had one of 4 procedures done to correct or treat this , frequency ablation . However.after the 1st procedure I developed cellulitis that has been antibacterial resistant going on since april . help me

Had lipoedema symptoms since 2018, size 8 top /12 legs, textured, bilateral swelling, ankle cuffs. legs remained unchanged until 2021 when I received BEP chemotherapy and I lost ALL of the symptoms (fit into size 8 jeans). 2022 Legs now at 2018 state. Do you think chemotherapy temporarily eradicated lipoedema?

My husband has lymphedema in his legs and psoriatic arthritis. The lymphedema appears to have been cause my his heart medication, which his cardiologist ignored. Are the any DMARDS or biologics that cater at lymphedema as well as PsA?

My husband has lymphedema in his legs and psoriatic arthritis. Are there any medications for lymphedema? Would lymphedema also respond to psoriatic arthritis DMARDs or biologics?

I have secondary rt. leg lymphedema since 2014. I suffered 2 bouts of cellulitis in 2017 requiring hospitalization followed by 2 years on Keflex. My most recent inf. occurred 4-2020 and I have been taking 250 mg Keflex since. Do I continue on prophylactics indefinitely? Terrified of more infections!

Sore on lower leg, below knee, above ankle. Best treatment?

I have lymphedema in right arm and hand. I was recently diagnosed with stenosing tenosynovitis of my right index finger. The orthopedic surgeon recommended treatment with a steroid injection. Would the injection be harmful causing my lymphedema to flare up?

I currently have cellulitis throughout my entire left leg, hip and lower abdomen. Most likely strep that moved very quickly. Do you advise using light compression during a bout of cellulitis or no compression at all? A scientific explanation of your response wold be appreciated. Thank you.

Diagnosed with lipedema and lymphedema for 21 years. Last 2 have large ulcer on leg. Traditional compression not helping, constant infections. Just found out all lymph nodes in abdomen and groin are extremely enlarged. Lymphoma suspected, dr afraid to do surgical biopsy bc of leg. What might help heal leg?

Hello, I have a patient who has undergone extensive surgery to remove a sarcoma in her thigh, includes quadriceps and inguinal lymph node removal. Scarring is significant and obstructive. She suffered a fractured patella that triggered LD. What method of mapping would be recommended? Available on NHS? Thank you.

Hi, please tell me, do you treat Dercums, or can you please suggest anyone who can help? My GP is at a loss. No local surgeons will touch me. Dermatology won't see me - they don't do Dercums! I have so many lumps and I'm in so much pain, please

Hi professor Mortimer, I saw you about 10 years ago at parkside! I had blood tests but never received results. How do I get genetic testing now to see if my lymphoedema is primary or secondary/ likely to be inherited? Thanks

Dear I need help, I live in the UK and there is no real help for lymphoema. It started after my surgery for bowel cancer (stage 4). I didn't even know about it! Now i am swollen everywhere, with extremely heavy limbs. I have always been maximum 130 pounds Iamnowhuge!

Do you suggest any specific diet for lymphedema

My daughter has no working lymphatic system - it was compromised when she gave birth to her son. She is very obese - is there anything you can suggest ? I am so concerned that she will have a short life. East Sussex, UK

How can I best treat the weeping rash associated with the swollen left calf and shin?

Since nodular sclerosing lymphoma causes scarring to lymph nodes, if there is retroperitoneal disease, could this cause left leg swelling (particularly starting in the foot)?

is it true that this cannot be passed down to the male members of my family.

Good day doctor. in your webcast you said there were 20+ syndromes causing primary lymphedema. Would you be able to tell the specific type i may have from my Lymphoscintigraphy results? My diagnosing doctor did not give any additional information, i am from the caribbean and have limited doctor resources.

From Trinidad

I believe you mentioned there are about 20 types of primary lymphedema. Is there a place to read about them all? I am curious which type I have. Diagnosed at age 48, but now know I have had mild version since age 12. Arms, legs, head, and neck. How rare?

Hi, A friend’s daughter (9yrs) has just been diagnosed with Primary Lymphedema - she is awaiting pressure garments. Any advice? Links?Also-excersizes/ massages? Treatment? Any advice would be greatly appreciated (Cadi is an amazing girl who loves nature, the environment and any creepy crawlies) Thanks in advance, Mr Gareth Evans

I have primary lymphedema in my left leg, I manage it well but am interested if you would recommend anyone in the UK to perform liposuction? Dr Munnoch only sees NHS patients and I wouldn't qualify. Thanks Nina

I recently read article about successful blood tests 2detect lymphedema https://bit.ly/3laBkWP in stage 0 how can I get tested in UK? My dad had Lymphorrhea so higher risk; my ankle is 3cm swollen, GP diagnosed AchillesTendonitis from photo! I think he’s wrong & would like 2rule out Lymphedema.

If I get a cold or do too much exercise one of my tonsils gets slightly bigger and I feel run down for several weeks. It feels like a very mild virus and can make my muscles ache. Is it my lymphatic system?

15 months ago after surgery for an incarcerated femoral hernia, I developed chylous ascites. Doctors here in the UK don’t know what’s causing it as we can’t find a leak. Conservative measurements have had no impact. I have zero quality of life as the fluid is crushing me. Please help

I am curious if there is a treatment for the thickening of the skin caused by lymphedema that is secondary to skin Mets from breast cancer? Also if there are ways to stop lymph leaking from a forearm?

83 yr old mother has severe lymphodema in both legs. She has infected ulcers and is being seen in a wound clinic and home care for bandage and wrap care. Her skin is constantly leaking lymphatic fluid and has progress to her back, parts of the chest. Any suggestions appreciated.

I have lymphedema with swelling that does not reduce with elevation. I get spasms of intense itching. is this a common symptom of lymphedema?

I take penicillin vk since 2012 2 times daily 250mg. I have cellulitis usually every 3 years.Recently had 2 bouts cellulitis within 6 months. Is it possible that bacteria become resistant? Also 6 months back I started to take sertraline. I am fit. What shall I do avoid cellulitis?

I have had secondary Lymphedema for over 10 years. I have had several infections that require antibiotics. I have peeling skin on my hand that is spreading from my hand onto my arm. The peeling skin does not hurt should I be worried about this problem.? Thank you

I am looking for information on being a maternal child of a parent with elephantitis Where can I find research and get information on this?

I've had a swollen foot since the age of 30 (like my dad) and a presumably blocked, enlarged lymph node in my groin. Usually manageable but lately more swollen / painful. I'm slim and active, I have fairly regular LDM, do drainage exercises daily. Any advice? Thank you!

My 15 year old daughter is a normal weight (166cm/58kg), with a very slim upper, but disproportionate legs, which have become painful recently. I suspect lipoedema-there's a family history of lymphoedema. Once diagnosed, is it recommended to commence treatment as young as possible? I have not seen aGP yet.

I know that I have lipodema due to the way my fat collects and the fact that both my mother and grandmother were diagnosed. I have been to my GP but they have absolutely no knowledge of lipodema or resources to help me. What can I do?

What is the difference between subcutaneous and dermal?? Doctor says subcutaneous thickening can be caused by other medical conditions but DERMAL thickening is caused only by lymphedema.. is that true ??

Can lymphedema of the arm cause areas of paler skin? I notice my hand seems lighter color then my non lymphedema hand and also an area on forearm. Regular Dr and Dermatologist say nothing to worry about. Just different skin pigmentation. Is this something to be concerned about?

I have mild lymphedema in LUE. Seems to be a slight paler color on an area of the LE arm. PCP says nothing to worry about probably just skin pigmentation. Derm dr says most likely pigementation as we age. Could this be caused by lymphedema? Worrisome?

Are patients with secondary lymphedema (lower vs upper extremities) considered a risk group or not and why? Any expert advise highly appreciated. Many thanks

I am a CLT in Wisconsin, could you tell me your thoughts on the best way to measure for breast edema if my organization does not have a bio impedance machine? Thank you.

How bad are 15 hour flights for primary lymphedema in both legs? I really want to show China and Japan to my mum but she has lymphedema(has compressiongarments) and flights are too long. We live inUK, should I notconsider it at all? Best advice to fly as safe possible?Thankyouverymuch

I am mother to a boy, age 9 who has a lymphatic malformation of the tongue. Are you aware of anyone in the UK that is using Sirolimus to treat LMs of the tongue? I'm interested as it seems a less invasive type of treatment.

Can walking for non stop 2 straight hours without compressions cause your leg to swell up .. is that a typical trait of a lymphedema patient?? My friend is eager to know he has lymphedema stage 0

Client has wounds into leg, tracks draining blood and lymph fluid also has produced calcium crystals that come out of wounds, happening over a year now. Suggestions for care, and cause of calcium crystals? Goes to wound clinic but they have no answers.

Is it possible for bacteria that caused one cellulitis attack to be not fully eradicated by antibiotics, and linger or remain latent and cause future cellulitis attacks? Are there any tests for this? What specialist should a patient see for this?

Can lymphedema be caused by obesity? If so, can it be managed by losing weight?

Hello I was on Ramipril and Amlodipine for high BP, and I have arm lymphodema following breast cancer treatment. I read an interesting article you wrote about the contra-indication of CCBs and so switched to Lercandipine. This is still a CCB though so should I avoid CCBs altogether?

 Could you explain the best practice for treating weeping lymphedema wounds? Also, is Aquacel XL+ safe to use for long periods? Finally, if recommended, what is the best type of absorbent dressing to use for major leaking?

I've read that applying Manuka honey can help heal weeping lymphedema wounds. I've also read about medical grade honey being the better choice. Does it work and are both types of honey safe to use?

 What could cause the healing nicely weeping wound on my leg to literally overnight start to leak so badly it requires changing super absorbent pads 2-3 times a day. My calf went from 25" to 30" and feet increased in edema too. 2 weeks now.

I have folliculitis & have been given antibiotic lotion, then 3 months of antibiotics & within a week of finishing, it came right back. Is there something in the way of a supplement or topical in the natural world that might help. I was antibacterial lotion to wash my face.

I am diagnosed with primary lymphedema in my lower limbs. It started in my left leg in 2012 and is now in both legs. I have had 10 Recurring fever rash episodes That last for six days which episodes. WBC count within normal limits. Any thoughts?

I have a large Birthmark that covers my torso region. When I first start exercising after not having done so in a long time, I seem to swell up, this fluid migrates around my body dependant on how I'm orientated. The doctors in the hospital were baffled. Is this lymphedema?

Hi Dr Mortimer Im a new breast cancer nurse and I am actually trying to locate where we can purchase some of your books on self management and treatment for our breast unit, I have tried to contact the publishers with no success, thank you

Could you please tell me why my legs are unbearably itchy on removal of my Memory Aloe vera compression stockings? I cannot wear them any longer. Developed lymphoedema in both legs following surgery for removal of varicose veins many years ago. Have had cellulitis once. Had MLD many times.Thank you.

Hi I have secondary lymphedema in my left arm & side chest area (breast cancer). I have poison ivy on my face near the eyes & have a bit under my left arm. Before calling my primary dr are there treatments I should avoid? Thank you

What is the best way to remove an actinic keratosis on the hand of my lymphoedema arm, that would cause the least inflammation? Last time it swelled like a boxing glove. I've had several pre and in situ skin cancers treated before so would be best if I could.

Dear professor Sometimes I met in my clinic patients with cellulitis not responding to usual antibiotic according to BLS e.g. ampecelline How you would to treat those patient,by antifungal,topical antibiotic has rule? Thanks in advance Ahmed sawaby

My 34 year old son has been diagnosed with Genital Lymphodema recently. He has severe swelling with penial deformity. He has has been advised to wear cycle shorts & to wrap his penis with a bandage to aid drainage. What is the prognosis especially with him being so young?

My aunt experiences exacerbations of her lymphedema when she needs treatment with steroids & antibiotics for a flare up of asthma. Can steroids cause this exacerbation of lymphedema? Thanks

I have had Lymphoedema in my legs following lymph node removal for cervical cancer 24 years ago and now need a knee replacement. I’m concerned that my surgeons have not recommended antibiotic use pre and post surgery . Can you tell if you think antibiotics are indicated.

Dear Prof. I had bilateral axilla removal in 2002. I have had lymphoedema in left arm since that time. I was diagnosed with it in my right arm in 2016.(14 years on). Is this a new incidence or is it an aggravation of a general latent condition in your opinion? Is it always latent when you have axilla removal or is it dependent on external factors plus genetic disposition? Thanks.

I have recently been diagnosed with secondary Lymphoedema due to a biopsy in 1992. My left leg is affected and I’m using compression tights to try and control it but at the age off 44 and a fit person who likes to run when possible I’d like to look at surgery if possible. The LVA I’ve seen offered through a private practice in Oxford looks to identify where the blockage is and bypass the flow. This surgery is relatively new but not uncommon in the private sector, I’m unsure of the nhs option. Do you have any knowledge on the success rates as it’s an expensive option? Many thanks Simon

Hi I have primary lymphoedema in my left leg which occurred during pregnancy 15 years ago. I have regular MlD but am looking at surgery. In your opinion would you recommend having VLNT and have you seen positive results from it. If so who would you recommend I used? Thanks NIna

This is a question from the UK, I am so sorry to be a bother to you but I just can't seem to get any answers from the UK so in sheer despiration I've had to come and ask you this ... please can you give me any information on Lymphoedema in the stomach .. my Lymphoedema Clinic have told me that they will no longer deal with me now that I also have Lymphoedema in the stomach (I also have Bi-Lateral leg Lymp hoedema .. they have stated to me in a letter that 'they only do legs' ... I have now been without any form of treatment since last August ... I don't know what to do ... my legs are getting worse as is my stomach and now also my buttocks. .. please can you tell me if there's anything at all I can do to help myself Many Thanks SuzeJo

 I have primary lymphedema in my right leg. My husband won a trip to Hawaii with the company he works for. Would it be ok to use a self tanning lotion on my leg that has lymphedema? Thank you, Angela

My son was misdiagnosed at birth with a subcutaneous haemangeoma in November 2015 on his left lower thigh. However, following a flare up due to infection in July 17 & Feb 18, he was sent for an MRI which led to an assessment of extensive Lymphovenous malformation. Plastics department said that they cannot perform surgery due to size of malformation. The Interventional radiology department is to perform a biopsy tomorrow. Following that we are to receive treatment options. My questions are: what treatments are there for this condition and what are the risks? Is this condition treatable? is there a specialist hospital/ consultant that we should be referred to given we think that the current practitioners have not got the relevant experience? How can we push for referral to the experts? we are willing to travel (live in Birmingham).

I have had lymphedema in my left leg for almost 20 years. The skin around my toes has been dry for some time and has gotten much worse in recent years. I recently began applying Eucerin lotion morning and night. It seemed to help for a while, but now the skin seems to be getting even more cracked and dry and I don't know what to do! Do you have any tips for reversing and preventing this? Thank you!

Prof. Mortimer, reading your posts for the first time on this site(LSN member UK, and secondary lymphoedema sufferer for 13 years). Interesting reading your take on surgery care for lymphoedema patients concerning tourniquets. Two years ago, I had a cardiac arrest at home(one of the lucky ones, I survived!) I was taken to the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle, and had an angioplasty and stent insertion. As we are "trained" to do, I mentioned that I had lymphoedema and therefore shouldn't have treatment on my affected right arm(crazy when my life was at stake, but you do this automatically). They said "don't worry, we can treat cellulitis if it happens!" I had an an incision in my right wrist, and the angioplasty followed. They then fitted an extremely tight plastic tourniquet to seal the artery. I watched it closely for 24 hours or there abouts, expecting problems. Next day, it was removed, and all was well. No effects whatsoever! Lucky or what?

My dad who is 73, had shingles in July 2016. This resulted in neuropathic pains, which now has lasted a year. Nothing helps for pain relief, but what I am enquiring about is a swollen area filled with fluid under his armpit. It came after the shingles. Doctors in Holland are not sure what it is. He had physio for it, which has not reduced or changed it.It causes pain when he walks or moves. Also his skin remains extremely sensitive. Is he at risk for infection? Will the fluid stay or solidify? What is it? He never had this before. In your expertise, could you please advise me what this could be and which specialist should he refer himself to? He does take meds as he had a heart attack 3 years ago. He does not drink, eats healthy, cycles and walks. I live in the UK. He lives in Holland. Thank you. 

Dr Mortimer I have developed lymphedema on both ankles at the age of 18. I am healthly and do not suffer from any other condition. Nobody in my family has this condition but I need to identify if It is primary or secondary Lymphedema as this increases the chances of giving birth to a child with the symptom. Is there any specific tests that determines if my condition is primary or secondary?

Hi. I am asking the question on behalf of a family member. As a result of being diagnosed with cancer of the uterus approx 14 years ago they underwent a full hysterectomy, they subsequently had chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The lymph nodes were removed from the left leg area. Over the past 4 years lymphodema has become an increasing problem down the left leg. A large lump has grown on the inner thigh and treatment is having very little impact. They are under the care of the Christie Hospital but due to this condition being extremely under funded there are very few options. They currently wear a compression stocking every day which is bearable however trying to obtain a second stocking has become impossible as the nurses never get the measurements right. Very frustrating!! They have visited a clinic in London to investigate the possiblity of lymph node transplant but apparently this is not an option as it has been stated there is a lot of scar tissue?? Whatever that means. I would like to know if there is anywhere in the UK that specialised in lymphodema and what does your research suggest for long term treatment? Many Thanks

Since uterine cancer diagnosis and treatment 5 years ago, I have had recurring infections. For the past two years I have experienced rapid onset of cellulitis and lymphedema. I am concerned because the cellulitis comes on so quickly as does the swelling. My doctor has me on daily antibiotic but I do not feel any better. Do you have any suggestions? I am frustrated. Thank you.

My question regards the skin lesions that appear to be a hyperkeratosis that are commonly seen particularly in cases of lower extremity lymphedema. Are these keratoses similar histologically to actinic keratoses which may develop from overexposure to sunlight? Do they simply represent a hyperplasia of the keratinocytes or a metaplasia of the keratinocytes in which their cell structure undergo change.

Well I am planning a trip and it takes 24hours to get there. I had the lymph node taken out of one arm pit and bc and I have a compression sleeve and I can wear it just incase but what else should I do. Is there a big risk of my arm swelling. Is there something I should worry about in Thailand, should I take shots.

Having psoriasis flare-ups on my elbow of my bad arm is challenging. The meds for it don't work for long. What advise do you have to keep the flaking & rawness at bay?

20 years ago was the first time the back of my head swelled up. It would get really swollen, hot and skin was very tight. It would spread all over the back and into the temple region between 4-12 seconds. After a week or two, it would drain down my neck and out my shoulders. This continued a couple times a year, every single year. Last June, the swelling got worse and reached my face, swelling one eye shut. It no longer drains, as the back of my head and both sides of my neck down by the collarbone have big squishy lumps. In August and continuing, both my armpits and down both sides of my body have swollen up and have stayed that way. My arms, fingers, legs, knees, ankles and toes also are a bit swollen. From what I was told by a doctor was that I have Primary Lymphedema with Angioedema. However, other doctors aren't sure because I don't fit in the "norm" of Lymphedema patients since it's affecting my entire body, literally from head to toe. I've seen so many doctors (ENT, Immunologist, Neurologist, Vascular Surgeon, Internalist) and have every single one of them stumped. Do you have any idea or opinion or thought as to what these conditions are that are happening to me? For some reason, the doctors are not coming to any kind of conclusion to my situation. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Much Thanks, Joe

I am a left breast cancer survivor of 9 years. I had a lumpectomy and 3 sentinel nodes removed. I have also had a parathyroid removed ( benign) and have Hashimoto Thyroiditis. I want to undergo a trigger finger surgery on my left hand and am concerned about Lymphedema. The procedure involves a wound and a tourniquet on the arm/hand I have always been advised to protect from such things. Can you comment on the risk and any possible options to lessen the risk? Say if a tourniquet was somehow not used. Is the wound made and the tourniquet used the same level of risk? I don't want to trade a painful trigger finger for Lymphedema and I just don't know how to calculate the risk?