Have you ever noticed deep sock marks around your ankles or a heavy, swollen feeling in your legs? It might seem harmless — but doctors warn it could be a sign your lymphatic system isn’t working properly.

This condition, called lymphedema, happens when the body can’t drain lymph fluid effectively, leading to chronic swelling. According to Dr. Teter, a vascular surgeon at Hackensack University Medical Center, it can appear after cancer treatments, infections, or injuries, and sometimes without a clear cause at all. “People often ignore early swelling, but catching it early can make a big difference,” she explained.

Lymphedema usually affects an arm or leg, causing tightness, thickened skin, and recurring infections. While it can’t always be prevented, lifestyle changes help. Doctors recommend reducing salt, wearing compression socks, keeping a healthy weight, and avoiding long hours of sitting or standing.

Even small body signals — like those sock marks — deserve attention. Sometimes, the quiet warnings are our body’s way of asking for care before a bigger problem begins. 💛