What is the difference between venous edema and lymphatic edema?

Venous edema is primarily associated with impaired blood flow through the veins, while lymphatic edema is related to insufficient functioning of the lymphatic system. By external signs, they cannot always be reliably distinguished: a mixed venous-lymphatic edema is possible. The cause is determined by a doctor, and the wearing regimen of medical compression garments depends on the diagnosis, the condition of the arteries, and other patient characteristics.

What is called edema

Edema occurs when more fluid accumulates in the tissues than can be removed through the venous and lymphatic systems. The legs may increase in volume, a feeling of fullness appears, shoes become tighter, and sometimes a dent remains on the skin after pressing. The causes of edema are varied. It can be associated not only with diseases of the veins or lymphatic system but also with heart, kidney, liver diseases, the intake of certain medications, trauma, inflammation, or prolonged immobility. Therefore, the mere fact of edema does not indicate a specific disease.

How venous edema occurs

Veins return blood from the legs to the heart. Venous valves and the work of the calf muscles help blood move upward against gravity. If venous outflow is impaired, pressure in the veins increases. Some fluid leaks out of the vessels and accumulates in the tissues. Venous edema may accompany varicose disease, post-thrombotic changes, and other chronic venous diseases.

Possible signs of venous edema

It may be characterized by:

  • the appearance or worsening of edema after prolonged standing or sitting;
  • more noticeable swelling in the area of the ankles and lower legs;
  • reduction of edema after nighttime rest or keeping the legs elevated;
  • heaviness, fullness, fatigue in the legs;
  • varicose veins;
  • changes in skin color, venous eczema, or tissue thickening with prolonged disease progression.

These signs are not sufficient for a self-diagnosis. For example, edema of only one leg can occur in acute venous thrombosis.

How lymphatic edema occurs

The lymphatic system removes fluid, proteins, and other substances from the tissues that do not return directly through the venous capillaries. If the transport capacity of the lymphatic vessels is reduced, lymphedema forms. It can be primary, associated with the developmental features of the lymphatic system, or secondary. Secondary lymphedema can occur after the removal or damage of lymph nodes and vessels, radiation therapy, trauma, infection, and in some chronic diseases.

According to the clinical guidelines of the Ministry of Health of Russia "Lymphedema of the limbs" for 2025, the main symptoms of the disease are: swelling of the limb, a feeling of tightness or heaviness in the affected limb, problems with movement of the affected limb. For lymphedema, early consultation with a specialist is especially important, as the tissues may become denser and the edema less reversible as it progresses. At an early stage, lymphatic edema may be soft, decrease after rest, and leave a dent when pressed. Therefore, the absence of skin thickening or a negative Stemmer's sign does not exclude lymphedema.

Can edema be both venous and lymphatic at the same time

Yes. The venous and lymphatic systems work together. With prolonged increases in venous pressure, the load on the lymphatic vessels increases. Over time, their capacity may become insufficient—this is how mixed venous-lymphatic edema, or phlebolymphedema, forms.

How a doctor determines the cause of edema

Examination usually begins with an analysis of complaints, medical history, and physical examination. The doctor assesses:

  • when the edema appeared and how quickly it develops;
  • whether one leg or both are affected;
  • whether the volume of the limb changes throughout the day;
  • whether the foot and toes are involved;
  • whether there are varicose veins, skin changes, or traces of previous surgeries;
  • whether there have been thromboses, injuries, infections, oncological surgeries, or radiation therapy;
  • whether there are heart, kidney, liver diseases, and other possible causes of edema.

If venous disease is suspected, ultrasound duplex scanning may be used. To assess the lymphatic system, the doctor may choose additional methods, including lymphoscintigraphy or other imaging techniques, if indicated.

When urgent medical assistance is needed for edema

Do not delay seeking medical help if:

  • one leg has suddenly swollen;
  • pain, redness, or local increase in skin temperature has appeared;
  • edema occurred after surgery, trauma, a long flight, or a period of immobility;
  • shortness of breath, chest pain, weakness, or coughing up blood have appeared simultaneously;
  • edema is increasing rapidly;
  • there are skin injuries, signs of infection, or fever.

Such symptoms require the exclusion of deep vein thrombosis, thromboembolism, and other acute conditions.

Medical compression garments for edema

Medical compression garments create distributed pressure on the limb. As part of the therapy prescribed by a doctor, they can be used to control edema, support venous and lymphatic outflow, and prevent further increases in limb volume.

For lymphedema, special products designed for the altered shape of the limb and increased tissue retention needs may be used. The choice depends on the location of the edema: for the lower limbs, compression socks, stockings, or tights are used, while for lymphatic edema of the arm, the doctor may prescribe a compression sleeve or glove.

The Luomma Idealista line features flat-knit compression gloves for the prevention and treatment of lymphedema of the hand and fingers (primary and secondary lymphedema stages I and II, post-mastectomy edema of the upper limbs). Flat knitting provides low extensibility and firm tissue retention, while flat seams help reduce discomfort during prolonged wear. Such design features are especially important in lymphatic edema of the hand, where it is necessary to consider the shape of the limb and changes in tissue volume. The need for a glove, compression class, size, and wearing regimen is determined by the attending physician.

The company "Ecoten" has been producing medical compression garments for over 17 years. All products have Registration Certificates and are included in the "Register of Russian Industrial Products." Any decisions regarding the prescription of compression products are made exclusively by the attending physician. This material is for informational purposes only. Follow our group on VKontakte.