What is Lymphoedema?
Put simply, lymphoedema is a condition which affects the lymphatic system; the process by which we filter and drain waste fluid from our bodies. If the lymphatic system is unable to cope with the drainage of this ‘lymph’ it can cause the pooling of fluid in the tissues beneath the skin. This can lead to swelling, usually in the arms and legs, but other parts of the body can also be affected.
There are two types of Lymphoedema: Primary, which is often hereditary and runs in families and Secondary, which is usually the result of damage to the lymphatic vessels or lymph nodes being scarred, blocked or removed following cancer treatment, trauma, surgery or infection.
The good news is that there are several ways that Lymphoedema can be treated:
Taking care of the skin
Exercise
Compression using special bandages and hosiery (this may be long term)
Lymphatic drainage
Patients may need one treatment or a combination of all of them, either all at once or at different times. Lymphoedema also requires daily self-management and our nurses can provide patients with the information they need to understand and effectively manage their symptoms.
How is someone referred to our Lymphoedema Clinic?
Hospice is able to offer symptomatic management of Lymphoedema for individuals with a terminal diagnosis. Patients may be referred by their Consultant, GP or other health care professional, who should complete a referral form. To contact the lymphoedema team please telephone +44 (0)1624 647456
Download our referral form
