San Diego Health

The lymphatic system has an important job: it helps the body fight off infection. But when the body’s lymph system is damaged or blocked, fluids can build up in the body’s soft tissues and cause swelling, typically in the extremities. The condition is called lymphedema. There’s no cure for lymphedema, but it can be managed with help from your health care team. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor and guests Manish Champaneria, MD, a Scripps Clinic plastic surgeon who specializes in lymphedema surgery, and certified lymphedema therapist Maryam Rahnema discuss what causes lymphedema, how it’s diagnosed, and treatment options. The experts also discuss what can happen if lymphedema is left untreated and why early intervention is optimal.