8. What can make lymphoedema worse?
Short answer
Several factors can increase swelling or trigger a flare-up:
• Weight gain or obesity, which places extra strain on the lymphatic system.
• Skin infections, such as cellulitis or erysipelas, which can damage the lymphatic vessels and make swelling worse.
• Puberty, when hormonal changes may cause lymphoedema to appear for the first time or become more noticeable.
• Injuries or surgery, even minor ones in some children.
• Certain medicines, including some anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids, although these are much less common causes and should never be stopped without medical advice.
• Weight gain or obesity, which places extra strain on the lymphatic system.
• Skin infections, such as cellulitis or erysipelas, which can damage the lymphatic vessels and make swelling worse.
• Puberty, when hormonal changes may cause lymphoedema to appear for the first time or become more noticeable.
• Injuries or surgery, even minor ones in some children.
• Certain medicines, including some anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids, although these are much less common causes and should never be stopped without medical advice.