What is the difference between Lymphedema and Edema?

Edema is the normal response of the body to an injury such as a sprain. As the healing proceeds, the excess fluid leaves the area, which results in the swelling going down. Lymphedema is a condition that occurs when the lymphatic system is so impaired to the extent that even the amount of the lymphatic fluid present in a given area exceeds the capacity of the lymphatic transport system to get rid of it. Edema is basically caused by tissue fluid, which is in excess that has not yet returned to the circulatory system.

Lymphedema is a swelling that results from excess protein-rich lymph trapped within the tissues. Edema, which is due to an injury, like bumping into something, is usually caused by an additional tissue fluid coming into the area to help in the healing process. Lymphedema impaired tissues usually respond to injury with slow healing, and it also has a potentially serious infection.

Edema is known to be swelling that may be caused by excess tissue fluid. This would need to return to the circulatory system so that the swelling can be greatly reduced. Lymphedema, on the other hand, is known to be caused by some lymph that has gotten stuck within the available tissues.

It is obvious that these two are connected to swelling. Lymphedema may usually occur when the lymphatic system is not working accordingly. It may be impaired, or this is also a sign that infection cannot be cured by the lymphatic system properly. Edema is usually a sign that there is an injury that would need to be addressed soon.