Long-Term Side Effects Symptoms of Congenital Lymphedema

Lymphedema is characterized by fluid build up in the extremities. Poorly functioning or non-existent lymph nodes prevent proper drainage of lymph fluid. Congenital lymphedema results from an inherited abnormality, according to the University of Pittsburgh. This condition causes a number of symptoms that often require lifelong management as well as certain complications.

Skin

• Lymphedema causes the skin to thicken around the affected area and takes on the appearance of an orange peel. Deep cracks can also cause lymph fluid to leak out of the skin, according to Dr. Don R. Revis of Emedicine.com

Swelling

• The swelling that results from lymphedema ranges from mild to severe and disabling, according to the Mayo Clinic. In the worst cases, you cannot use the affected limb at all.

Inflammation

• The build up of fluid and protein in the body provoke an inflammatory response that produces a number of changes in the body. This can lead to recurrent infections and rarely, lymphangiosarcoma—a cancerous tumor, according to Revis.

Bilateral Congenital Lymphedema

• Bilateral congenital lymphedema—in which the lower and upper extremities are affected sometimes improves over time spontaneously, according to Revis.

Treatment

• While you cannot completely cure lymphedema, several treatments can manage symptoms. This includes lymph drainage massage, compression wear, exercises and in the most severe cases—surgery.