What are the early signs of lymphedema?

Early signs of lymphedema can include a heavy, full, or tight feeling in the area where you had surgery or radiation therapy; swelling that may leave a dent in the skin when you press on it; and numbness or tingling in the affected area. With long-term, untreated lymphedema, the skin may become discolored and hardened.

Signs may develop slowly over months or years, so it helps to pay close attention to any slight changes. Lymphedema most commonly affects an arm or leg, where it may make the limb appear larger than the other, harder to move, or weak. It can also occur in the head or neck or in the genitals or abdomen, with their own additional signs.

Because lymphedema is easier to control when treatment starts early, contact your doctor as soon as you notice any of these signs. Your doctor can examine the area and, for an arm or leg, compare it with the other limb to help understand what is happening. Your healthcare team can tell you which changes to watch for and call about.