Edema and Lymphedema Compared
Introduction
It is important to understand the differences between edema and lymphedema. Although both conditions involve swelling, these conditions have very different causes and are treated differently. The table below compares these two conditions.
    
Edema,  which is commonly known as swelling, is the body’s normal response to an injury such as a sprain. As healing progresses, the excess fluid leaves the area and the swelling goes down. 
Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is impaired to the extent that the amount of lymphatic fluid within a given area exceeds the capacity of the lymphatic transport system to remove it. 
Edema is usually caused by excess tissue fluid that had not yet returned to the circulatory system. 
Lymphedema is swelling caused by excess protein-rich lymph that does not drain properly from within the tissues.  
Edema can be due to an injury, such as a sprain or by bumping into something. This damage causes additional tissue fluid to come into the area to help with healing. 
Lymphedema impaired tissues respond to injury with slow healing and/or a potentially serious infection. See Infections Related to Lymphedema. 
Edema is also caused by circulatory system problems, such as chronic venous insufficiency. This type of  swelling usually occurs in the lower areas of the body. 
Lymphedema is caused by damage to the lymphatic system and this swelling occurs near the affected area. 
Edema. When a finger is pressed into this type of edema it does not leave a mark or indentation. This is known as non-pitting edema. 
Lymphedema. When a finger is pressed into the swelling of the early stages of lymphedema it leaves a temporary indentation. This is known as pitting edema.  
Edema due to some causes can be relieved with diuretics. 
Lymphedema is harmed, not helped, by treatment with diuretics. See Diuretics are Not the Answer.