What is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is a swelling which can affect any part of the body, categorised as either primary or secondary.

A Primary lymphoedema is one where the person affected is born with an inefficient lymphatic system. Symptoms of swelling can appear at birth or at any time in a persons life.

A Secondary lymphoedema is a swelling which occurs as a result of some cause – most commonly after lymph nodes are removed surgically and/or radiated as a part of their treatment for cancer.

Can it be treated?

Yes. The treatment of lymphoedema falls roughly into two categories:- Phase One which is an intensive treatment period for reduction of the swollen area and Phase Two which is a maintenance phase intended to keep the area as reduced as possible after the intensive Phase one.

Both phases follow the four cornerstones of Lymphoedema treatment as described in the Macmillan Report on lymphoedema Treatment in 1984. Skincare; Exercises; bandaging (or compression) and Manual Lymph drainage. (MLD)

Phase One: Is an intensive period of MLD and Bandaging. Daily sessions for 2 to 4 weeks depending on the circumstances. Exercises and skincare are an integral part of this phase.

Phase Two: Once the situation has been improved in Phase One a maintenance programme must be instigated. This phase will be different from person to person and can be anything from once weekly to once monthly appointments of MLD with compression garments to supply the compression required.