- a feeling of ‘heaviness’, ‘tightness’ or ‘tension’ in the leg or foot
- swelling of the leg (dents may appear in your skin after wearing tight socks or shoes)
- aching of the leg or foot.
Some of these early signs may come and go. If one or more of the changes above develop, it doesn’t necessarily mean that lymphoedema will develop. However, if it is lymphoedema, identifying the signs early and starting appropriate treatment can help.
Some changes are not caused by lymphoedema but are side effects of surgery or radiotherapy. These include reduced range of movement, loss of muscle strength, changes in sensation and tingling in the leg or toes.
Women should tell their GP or another member of the health care team promptly about any changes that develop after the initial side effects of treatment have passed.