There is no cure for lymphedema, also known as elephant leg disease. Treatment focuses on reducing swelling and preventing complications. Lymphedema significantly increases the risk of skin infections (cellulitis). Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for you to keep on hand to begin taking immediately should symptoms appear.

You may also need therapy from physical therapists. Various exercises, manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandages, and special garments for lymphedema may be used in treatment. Click here for information on ways to protect against lymphedema after breast cancer.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Surgery is performed for severe limitation of movement in the arm or leg due to lymphedema, recurrent inflammations, cellulitis, and persistent pain. The edematous area is surgically removed.