What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a chronic swelling, most commonly of the arms, hands, legs and feet, due to lymphatic system failure. It can be cancer or non-cancer related.
Lymphoedema occurs due to lymphatic abnormalities or from damage including inflammation, infection, trauma, tumour, surgery or radiation. It ca occur from birth, after surgery and after certain cancer treatments
Lymphoedema can affect people of all ages from young to old, and can occur in any part of the body.
Lymphoedema affects individuals physically, psychologically and socially and it has a significant impact on quality of life and the ability to undertake the normal activities of daily living.
Further information about lymphoedema is available from the
NHS Direct Wales website
Lymphoedema is said to affect at least two per 1000 people. In Wales there are currently in excess of 10,000 patients on an active caseload. Every month over 520 new cancer and non-cancer lymphoedema patient referrals are received.
Although lymphoedema is a chronic condition with no cure, 60% of patients will self manage their lymphoedema by wearing compression garments (often socks and arm sleeves), exercising and adhering to a self massage regime. These patients still require lymphoedema services but not intensive management.
