An estimated 10 million people suffer from lymphedema in the United States alone, however, many people go undiagnosed or untreated. Lymphedema is chronic swelling (edema) in your body that occurs when your lymph system is injured or blocked. The edema can occur anywhere in the body but more frequently occurs in the arms or legs. Currently, there is no cure for lymphedema.
In this Massachusetts General Hospital Blum Center presentation from March 8, 2023, Catherine Holley, RN, CLT, gives an overview of lymphedema—its causes, stages, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Having lived with lymphedema for 38 years, Catherine’s personal experience adds a unique perspective to this often-misunderstood condition.
