What are the side effects of lymphatic massage?

Author: Mr. Halle Barrows  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 3, 2025

Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic massage. But some people develop side effects like fatigue, headaches or nausea. If this happens, let your healthcare provider know. They can tell you how to reduce your risk for these complications.

What happens to your body after a lymphatic massage?

After a lymphatic drainage massage, your body might feel warm due to increased blood circulation and the stimulation of the lymphatic system. The massage encourages the flow of lymph fluid, which helps eliminate toxins and waste from the body.

What not to do after a lymphatic massage?

Don't: Take hot baths or use saunas for the first 24 hours after the massage, as the heat can cause the blood vessels to dilate and impede the flow of lymph fluid. Don't: Massage the areas that were treated during the massage, as this can disrupt the flow of lymph fluid and undo the benefits of the massage.

How do I know if my lymphatic system is draining?

With severe swelling, the lymph fluid can drain through small breaks in the skin or cause blistering. Skin changes. In some people with very severe lymphedema, the skin of the affected limb can thicken and harden so it resembles the skin of an elephant.

Why do I feel sick after lymphatic drainage massage?

If things aren't able to leave our body as quickly as they are accumulating, we may experience something known as a "Detox Flu" after our MLD session. This is due to the temporary strain that detoxification puts on our body, and can include a low-grade fever, chills, and body aches. It's rare, but it can happen.

Lymphatic Drainage Potential Side Effects

What are the negative side effects of lymphatic drainage?

What are the risks or complications of lymphatic drainage massage?
  • Blood clots.
  • Cellulitis.
  • Deep vein thrombosis.
  • Fever.
  • Heart disease.
  • Infection.
  • Kidney failure.
  • Stroke.

Do you poop a lot after lymphatic drainage?

Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.

What does lymphatic clogging feel like?

What are the symptoms of lymphoedema? The main signs and symptoms of lymphoedema are: swelling in your arm, leg or other affected area — clothes, shoes or jewellery may seem tighter than usual. a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected area.

Where does the fluid go when you drain your lymphatic system?

The lymphatic vessels drain into collecting ducts, which empty their contents into the 2 subclavian veins, located under the collarbones. These veins join to form the superior vena cava, the large vein that drains blood from the upper body into the heart.

What is the best drink for lymphatic drainage?

Here are our top picks for the best teas to keep your lymphatic system flowing beautifully:
  • Yaupon Tea. Yaupon tea, a unique herbal tea made from Ilex vomitoria, is a fantastic option for lymphatic drainage. ...
  • Ginger Tea. ...
  • Chamomile Tea. ...
  • Peppermint Tea.

Do you lose weight after lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage massage may improve the appearance of cellulite but will not get rid of it completely. The most likely cause of weight loss immediately following the massage is the loss of excess fluid and potential bowel movement that occurs afterwards.

Why do I smell after a massage?

In conclusion, it is not uncommon to notice a smell on your skin after receiving a massage. Factors such as the type of oil used, sweating during the session, and poor hygiene practices can all contribute to any odors present.

Can you overdo lymphatic massage?

Thus, supporting it through lymphatic drainage massage can help enhance your overall wellness. However, it is crucial to avoid overdoing it, as excessive massage can lead to bruising and swelling, particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions.

What is the best lymphatic drainage tool?

The best products for lymphatic drainage, at a glance:

Best Dry Brush With Handle: Goop Beauty Dry Brush, $25. Best Gua Sha for Body: Skin Gym Sculptural Body Gua Sha, $52. Best Handheld Dry Brush: OSEA Body Brush, $28. Best Jade Gua Sha: Mount Lai The Jade Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool, 29.

How soon do you see results from lymphatic drainage massage?

Usually, some results will be noticeable immediately after your facial lymphatic drainage massage however the fluid will begin to properly drain around 24 to 48 hours post massage. For each individual client, the rate of lymphatic drainage can differ and therefore each individual will notice different results.

Where does lymph eventually drain into?

From the lymph glands, the lymph moves into larger lymphatic vessels that join up. These eventually reach a very large lymph vessel at the base of the neck called the thoracic duct. The thoracic duct then empties the lymph back into the blood circulation.

What vitamin helps the lymphatic system?

Vitamins that support the lymphatic system include, vitamin A, C, E, and B-6. Common herbs that also help include goldenseal, echinacea, and poke root.

Is coffee bad for your lymphatic system?

Alcohol and caffeine could also function like diuretics. They both could dilate the lymph tissue and cause more swelling, and as a result, exacerbate the lymphedema. Don't adopt a low-protein diet. Consumed protein has no connection with the protein in the lymph fluid.

Do you feel sick after lymphatic drainage?

Most people tolerate lymphatic drainage massage well. But it sometimes may cause: Headaches. Nausea.

What does magnesium do for the lymphatic system?

It facilitates substance P binding to lymphoblasts, promotes T helper, B cell, and macrophage responses to lymphokines, and facilitates antibody-dependent cytolysis and immune cell adherence. Besides, Mg serves as a cofactor for C'3 convertase and immunoglobulin synthesis.

Do you pee out lymphatic fluid?

These vessels route the fluid through the lymph nodes, which house immune cells that kill off abnormal cells and other harmful substances. The lymph fluid then drains back into the blood stream, which flows through the kidneys where waste is removed and passed out in your urine.

Why am I pooping so much after a massage?

Increased thirst and more frequent urination or bowel movements are also normal, as the body works to flush out toxins. Some people may experience emotional fluctuations or feel more relaxed due to the release of endorphins.

Why am I so tired after lymphatic drainage massage?

Get a good night's rest – It's possible you may feel a little tired after receiving a lymphatic drainage massage. That's completely normal as your body's energy is concentrated on the detoxification process its undergoing. Get to bed early if you can and enjoy a deep rest.

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