Can Vein Treatment Improve Lymphedema?

If you’re living with chronic swelling in your legs or ankles, you may have lymphedema, a condition caused by a buildup of lymphatic fluid. But what many people don’t realize is that underlying vein problems can sometimes make lymphedema worse.

At the Center for Vein Disease in Chevy Chase, MD, board-certified vein expert Dr. Mehru Sonde helps patients uncover the source of their symptoms and improve quality of life through targeted vein treatments. 

With over a decade of experience serving the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region, Dr. Sonde understands that every case of lymphedema deserves a careful, personalized approach. 

What Causes Lymphedema and Venous Swelling? 

Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is unable to drain fluid effectively, resulting in long-term swelling, often in the legs. It can develop after surgery, cancer treatment, or injury. In other cases, people are born with a less efficient lymphatic system. 

But lymphedema isn’t the only reason legs swell. Venous insufficiency—when veins don’t return blood properly to the heart—can cause similar symptoms. Venous swelling often comes first and leads to a condition called phlebolymphedema, where vein disease and lymphedema occur together. 

This is why a thorough vein evaluation is essential. Treating the vein problem may reduce overall swelling and make lymphedema easier to manage. 

How Vein Treatment Can Help 

Dr. Sonde uses noninvasive diagnostic tools, such as lower extremity ultrasound, to determine whether damaged veins are contributing to your swelling. If venous insufficiency is part of the problem, she may recommend one or more minimally invasive treatments such as: 

• Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) 
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
• Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy 
• VenaSeal™ 

By sealing off failing veins and rerouting blood flow, these treatments reduce fluid buildup, ease discomfort, and may even prevent your swelling from worsening. 

Many patients with both vein disease and lymphedema report feeling lighter, less achy, and more mobile after treatment. The earlier you seek help, the better your odds of preventing lymphedema progression.

Expert Vein and Lymphedema Care in Chevy Chase, MD 

If you’re struggling with swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet, don’t wait to seek answers. Call the Center for Vein Disease at 301-220-8346 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Mehru Sonde in Chevy Chase, MD.