One of the results of this is the formation of much excess fibrous tissue. The chronic inflammation causes more blood capillaries to form and to be dilated. This makes the limb feel hot. This heat, combined with the stagnant protein provides a perfect site for bacterial growth. The patient may be very ill, with constant infections, and need hospitalization.
Fungal infections are also very frequent, and are often difficult to clear up.
These infections, themselves, place greater loads on the lymphatic, and so worsen the lymphedema. When lymphedema first occurs it will pit if pressed with a thumb. If lymphedema lasts for some years, the swelling gets worse, and skin changes occur. There is loss of hair and alterations to the nails. Any lymphedema left untreated will gradually progress along this route.