“I’ve Always Just Had Swelling” – Why Ongoing Swelling Isn’t Normal

Many people live for years, sometimes decades, with swelling in their legs, arms, or other areas and simply accept it as “normal.” You might say things like:

“My feet always puff up at the end of the day.”

“It’s just because I’m on my feet a lot.”

“It’s always been like this.”

But persistent or recurring swelling is your body’s way of telling you something isn’t quite right, and it’s often the early sign of lymphoedema or another form of chronic oedema.

What Causes Ongoing Swelling?

Swelling occurs when fluid builds up in the tissues. In a healthy system, the lymphatic and venous systems work together to move this fluid out of the body. When that system becomes overloaded or damaged, fluid can get “stuck,” causing heaviness, puffiness, and aching.

Some common causes include:

• Venous insufficiency (poor vein function, often in the legs)

• Lymphatic system damage (after surgery, infection, or cancer treatment)

• Obesity or immobility, which slow fluid return

• Lipoedema, a condition causing painful fatty tissue and swelling

• Long-term untreated swelling, which eventually overwhelms the lymphatic system

Even if your swelling seems mild or only appears occasionally, it’s worth checking. The lymphatic system is excellent at compensating, until it can’t anymore.

Why Early Assessment Matters

Once the lymphatic system becomes compromised, the swelling won’t fully resolve on its own. Without treatment, it can slowly progress and cause:

• Thickened, fibrotic skin

• Recurrent infections (cellulitis)

• Increased discomfort and heaviness

• Greater difficulty finding shoes or clothes that fit

The earlier you start managing swelling, the easier it is to control and the less treatment you’ll need. A certified lymphoedema practitioner can assess the underlying cause, identify early lymphatic changes, and develop a personalised plan to reduce swelling and prevent worsening.

Treatment Is More Than Just Compression

Many people assume that lymphoedema management just means wearing stockings but treatment is much more comprehensive.

Your therapist may recommend:

• Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) – gentle, specialised massage to move fluid

• Compression therapy – properly fitted garments or wraps

• Exercise programs to improve lymphatic flow

• Skin care and infection prevention

• Education on self-management strategies

Compression garments are usually introduced after swelling has been reduced and must be fitted by a trained professional to ensure safety and comfort. It’s also recommended that garments are replaced every six months to maintain effectiveness.

“But My Swelling Isn’t That Bad…”

When caught early, lymphoedema and chronic oedema can often be managed with very simple interventions.

Early support may mean:

• Fewer infections

• Less discomfort

• Reduced need for complex therapy later on

Even if you’ve “always had swelling,” it’s not too late to make a difference.

 Lymphoedema and Chronic Swelling Support in Toowoomba

If you’ve noticed ongoing or recurrent swelling in your legs, feet, arms, or elsewhere, it’s worth having an assessment with an accredited lymphoedema practitioner. In Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, I provide lymphoedema assessment, treatment, garment fitting, and ongoing review.

You can book a free 15-minute consultation to talk about your symptoms and what might help.