Cellulitis is the most common complication of lymphoedema, but the condition can also cause psychological issues. These complications are explained below.
Cellulitis
Many people with lymphoedema experience repeated episodes of cellulitis. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep layer of skin (dermis) and the layer of fat and soft tissues (the subcutaneous tissues) that lie underneath the skin.
Symptoms of cellulitis include:
- redness and a feeling of heat in the skin
- pain
- generally feeling unwell
Cellulitis can usually be successfully treated with antibiotics (medicines to treat bacterial infections). See the Health A-Z topic about Cellulitis for more information about the condition.
Psychological affects
Living with a chronic (long-term) condition that affects your appearance can cause a great deal of distress. Lymphoedema can cause increased distress because many people will develop the condition after treatment for cancer.
If you have been feeling particularly down for the last few months and you no longer take pleasure in the things you usually enjoy, you may be experiencing a period of depression. If this is the case, talk to your GP or members of your lymphoedema treatment team because there is a range of effective treatments for depression.
See the Health A-Z topic about Depression for more information and advice.
Talking to other people who also have lymphoedema can be reassuring and decrease feelings of isolation, stress and anxiety. The Lymphoedema Support Network offers information and advice and can put you in touch with a support group in your area.
The Complex Decongestive Therapy plan has proved successful in treating lymphoedema (see Lymphoedema - treatment). If you persevere with treatment, your symptoms should become less noticeable and troublesome.
