Lymphoedema is a chronic, debilitating long term condition with prevalence affecting over 240,000 people in the UK. It presents as a swelling of any part of the body due to lymph fluid accumulating in the tissues because of a defective lymphatic system. The cause can be primary where there is a defect present from birth although it may not present itself until later in life, or secondary, caused by damage to the lymphatics through cancer, cancer treatments, surgery, trauma or infection. Worldwide the main cause of secondary lymphoedema is Filariasis. This is caused by a parasite entering and blocking the lymphatic system. These parasites do not live in Great Britain. Lymphoedema is a chronic long-term condition that is not curable at present but if appropriately treated can be well managed and is often preventable with correct advice and treatment. The sooner you seek advice from your Lymphoedema Nurse Specialist regarding your swelling the better the outcome. What are the signs and symptoms?
- Swelling of any area of the body
- Heaviness and aching
- Dry skin and other skin changes
- Folds developing in the skin
- Leakage of fluid from skin
- Repeated skin infection
- Skin becoming firm and tight
- Limited range of movement.
- Difficulty with movement
- Physical and emotional issues
- Difficulty with fitting footwear or clothing due to swelling
LymphCare UK offers a comprehensive range of treatment for lymphoedema.
The lymphatic system is part of our immune system and consists of organs, ducts, and nodes. It transports a watery clear fluid called lymph. It also interacts with the blood circulatory system it is the body’s drainage system, draining fluid from cells and tissues. Lymph fluid passes through lymph nodes which are connected by a network of lymph vessels. The nodes are found throughout the body. They filter and break down bacteria and other harmful cells from the lymph fluid. The lymph nodes contain white blood cells (lymphocytes), which attack and break down bacteria, viruses, damaged cells or cancer cells. Waste products and the destroyed bacteria are then carried in the lymph fluid back into the bloodstream and are removed from the body with other body waste. When we have an infection, lymph nodes often swell and become tender and sore to touch as they fight infection.
