Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people whoโ€™ve been there
  •   People who understand what youโ€™re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question ๐Ÿ’ญ
Belleview, FL
January 17
 · 
Reactions
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member Doing some research I learned that Lupus and Lymphedema are related through the immune and lymphatic systems. Lupus can affect lymphatic flow and can sometimes contribute to Lymphodema-like swelling in the limbs or other parts of the body. Lupus flares can also make lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels react strongly, leading to fluid build up, joint swelling and generalized tissue edema. Lupus can impair lymphatic flow from inflamed skin. The article also mentioned that this is a condition where lymph fluid cannot drain properly, causing persistent swelling and inflammation in legs, arms, etc. An auto-immune disease roughly doubles the odds of developing Lymphedema.

So I guess they are somewhat related, more like distant cousins, but they are intertwined, in the sense that Lupus can affect the normal lymphatic flow and attack and impair the lymphatic vessels. This isnโ€™t the norm for every Lupus patient, but it can happen to some of us. Anyway, at least I have an idea of what Iโ€™m dealing with. Hopefully the referral to the Lymphedema Clinic will give me some relief and lesson the swelling and inflammation. Take care and sleep well friend ๐Ÿ’œ๐Ÿ’•๐Ÿ’œ๐Ÿ’•๐Ÿ’œ

January 17 (edited)
A MyLupusTeam Member

Very interesting. Thanks for sharing

January 20
A MyLupusTeam Member

I'm sorry I don't know the to your question.

January 17
MyLupusTeam

Can lymphedema be related to lupus, and can it contribute to cellulitis soft tissue infections?

While the search results don't specifically address lymphedema, they do show that lupus can cause swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), which is different from lymphedema. Swollen lymph nodes occur when your immune system goes Show Full Answer

Can lymphedema be related to lupus, and can it contribute to cellulitis soft tissue infections?

While the search results don't specifically address lymphedema, they do show that lupus can cause swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), which is different from lymphedema. Swollen lymph nodes occur when your immune system goes into overdrive due to lupus, causing inflammation throughout your body. This is a common symptom, especially during lupus flares.

People with lupus have a significantly higher risk of developing infections in generalโ€”about two to six times more often than those without lupus. This increased risk happens for two main reasons:

* Lupus causes an abnormal immune response
* Medications used to treat lupus can weaken your immune system's ability to fight infections

This means that any condition affecting your skin or tissue could potentially make you more vulnerable to infections like cellulitis. If you're experiencing swelling or suspect an infection, it's important to contact your healthcare provider right away, as they can determine the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

January 17
A MyLupusTeam Member

Cindy, I wasn't aware of this, either, but found a case report of a young woman with lupus who developed lymphedema. It's rare. I hope you get some relief soon, my friend! Sending blessings and hugs.๐Ÿ˜˜

January 18

Related Questions

View All
A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question ๐Ÿ’ญ
Belleview, FL

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question ๐Ÿ’ญ
Wellington, FL