Can you please define lymphedema and what are the potential causes?

Circulation System: Lymphedema occurs when there is a compromise of the lymphatic circulation. This third circulation (arteries, veins) carries things too thick to be safely carried in arteries and veins like bacteria eaten by white cells and digested food. It is propelled along by normal body movements but contains a thick material called lymph. Blockage causes it to back up causing soft tissues/skin deformity.

Several cuases: Lymphedema is cause by poor circulation of lymph which is the protein filled fluid that circulates and bathes cells. Usually it is caused from injury by cancer, surgery, or infection. It can be caused by obesity or pregnancy with the weight of the belly impairing circulation. In these last two cases if or when the weight is removed, the lymphedema may resolve.

Lymphedema : Potential causes are primary - hereditary/congenital this mean patients are born with a lymphatic system that can be hypoplastic or aplastic. Secondary lymphedema is caused by an obstruction or impairment of lymph nodes either because they are resected or removed by surgery, radiation, scar tissue and related to other diseases affecting the lymphatic system.