Lymphedema Specialist
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Memphis Vein Center
Kishore K. Arcot , MD, FACC, FSCAI, FSVM, RPVI
Cardiology & Vascular Medicine located in Memphis, TN
If your legs and feet regularly appear swollen, lymphedema may be to blame. Although there’s no cure for lymphedema, it’s possible to manage with early diagnosis and treatment. At Memphis Vein Center in Memphis, Tennessee, board-certified cardiologist Kishore Arcot, MD, FACC, FSCAI, FSVM, RPVI, and the caring team regularly treat people experiencing lymphedema. To schedule your appointment, call or book online today.
Lymphedema Q & A
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema refers to swelling in your arms or legs. Usually, lymphedema occurs due to damage or removal of the lymph nodes. If your lymphatic system becomes blocked, fluid can’t drain properly. Over time, this excess buildup of fluid causes swelling.
What are the symptoms of lymphedema?
Common symptoms of lymphedema include:
- Swollen arms or legs, square toes
- Swollen fingers or toes
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Aching or discomfort
- Recurrent infections
As lymphedema becomes worse, it can also cause your skin to harden and thicken, a condition known as fibrosis.
Are there different types of lymphedema?
At Memphis Vein Center, Dr. Arcot treats both primary and secondary lymphedema.
Primary lymphedema (Lymphedema praecox)
Primary lymphedema occurs suddenly without any warning. It negatively affects your lymphatic vessels (drainage pipes), preventing the drainage of fluid. Some common causes of primary lymphedema include Milroy’s disease, Meige disease, and late-onset lymphedema.
Secondary lymphedema
Secondary lymphedema occurs due to a disease or an underlying medical condition. Some common causes of secondary lymphedema include surgery, cancer, radiation treatment for cancer, and infection.
How is lymphedema diagnosed?
To diagnose lymphedema, Dr. Arcot conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms
The ultrasound evaluation may be helpful to rule out other causes such as venous insufficiency or Deep Venous Thrombosis
How is lymphedema treated?
Treatment for lymphedema depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. The goal of treatment is to limit pain, reduce swelling, and improve mobility.
Dr. Arcot might recommend exercising regularly, wearing compression garments. Manual lymph drainage is a hands-on treatment technique that encourages the flow of lymph fluid out of your arm or leg. In addition, the most effective treatment is pneumatic mechanical compression device, which is highly effective to reduce swelling and rejuvenate the lymphatic vessels which is your drainage system.
To explore your treatment options for lymphedema, schedule an appointment at Memphis Vein Center. We are the leaders of lymphedema treatment in the mid-south area. Call or book online today
We are offering virtual visits for Varicose Veins. Call us to book your appointment today.
