Lymph Edema

heather113076 · November 14, 2007

My left leg is swollen, I went to a vascular doctor to find out why because it started during my pregnancy and never went away. The doctor advised me that it is because of the fat on my pelvis. It put pressure on the veins and the Fluid can not flow through my body thus causing the "build up" of fluid. I have been told losing weight will cause the problem to go away. Has anyone else had this problem and did it go away once you lost weight?

demsvmejm · November 14, 2007

Heather.

I was diagnosed with primary lymphedema when I was 12. (in the old days it was called Millroy's disease) The lymphatic system in my lower legs does not work well at all. Most of the vessels to transport Fluid are not there. No matter how much weight I lose, my lower legs, feet and ankles will always be filled with fluid. Your Dr's diagnosis might be correct. A buildup of fat cells could be stopping the fluid from reaching your lymph glands in your upper legs, causing the retention.

I hope for the best for you, as mine will never go away and can get really ugly. There is no cure, only treatment of compression stockings and binding my legs every night

heather113076 · November 14, 2007

I have tried compression stockings and it does not help at all! I'm sorry to hear that there is no cure for yours. All of my veins are there and healthy, its just the weight on my pelvis that prevents the movement of the Fluid. It has been about 8 years since I have worn a knee length skirt and about the same for wearing shorts out in public. I really am hoping that the weighloss will "cure" my problem. Thanks for the well wishes!