Complications of Lymphoedema

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is the most common complication of lymphoedema, but the condition can also cause psychological issues. Many people with lymphoedema experience repeated episodes of cellulitis. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep layer of skin (dermis) and the layer of fat and soft tissues (the subcutaneous tissues) that lie underneath the skin.

Symptoms of cellulitis include:

redness and a feeling of heat in the skin
pain
generally feeling unwell
flu like symptoms
fever and high temperature

Cellulitis can usually be successfully treated with antibiotics (medicines to treat bacterial infections) lymphoedema.

Psychological Effects

Living with a chronic (long-term) condition that affects ones appearance can cause a great deal of distress. Lymphoedema can cause increased distress because many people will develop the condition after treatment for cancer. It serves as a constant reminder of having had cancer.