Primary lymphedema is caused by developmental lymphatic vascular anomalies and secondary lymphedema is caused by an underlying disease, trauma or surgery. Monique Samuels has extreme lymphedema in her legs. If I’m to continuing working, although a senior now, I need to work either p/t or identify employment which doesn’t cause my condition to worsen. After a fall ice skating age 12, Monique thought she had a sprained ankle. Lymphedema occurs when the normal drainage is disrupted. Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive condition of which there is currently no cure. For all types of lymphedema, the vast majority of sufferers are women. [Early Detection of Lymphedema is Key] In advanced stages, swollen areas can harden, indicating that the swelling may be less easily reversed. Lymphedema manifests by swelling and is caused by either a malfunction of the lymphatic system from birth (primary) or an injury/trauma (secondary) and can affect limbs, the trunk, face and neck, genitals or even the whole body. Does anyone know where we can get pants to fit legs wrapped for lymphedema? Indicators of lymphedema include swelling, tightness, pain and reduced range of motion in one arm or leg, although sometimes both arms or legs can be affected. Lymphedema. “The most important part of treating lymphedema is compression though, whether it comes from a compression stocking, a compression garment, a compression pump,” she said. Secondary lymphedema refers to an insufficiency of the lymphatic system that results from an external trauma, such as surgical removal of the lymph nodes, radiation therapy or traumatic injury. Too I experience a great deal of discomfort in my legs throughout the work day.Oftentimes feel stressed and depressed because of the effects the working condition has on the lymphedema. I am 19, living with Primary Lymphedema in my left leg. The lymphatic system collects excess fluid and proteins from body tissues and carries them back to the bloodstream. I have sewn an insert into the inseam of pants to make them wider, but know with the ... Advertisement. But after several weeks, while the … I learned about this website today and was wondering if there are any others ... 11 Replies. ... Hi all! Arm lymphedema, caused by breast cancer treatment is the most common type associated with cancer treatment, but therapy for other cancers, including uterine, cervical, prostate and malignant melanoma, can also cause lymphedema, particularly in the legs. Explore. If lymphedema is caused by a blockage, patients typically develop swelling in their arms or legs.