Lymphoedema Awareness Week
Lymphoedema (pronounced Lim-fo-dee-ma) is a chronic inflammatory condition in which a part of the lymphatic drainage system fails to work effectively.
Lymphoedema affects all ages.
There are estimated to be almost 450,000 people in the UK with lymphoedema. It is more common than the combined number of people with Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease, HIV and Parkinson’s Disease.
But what actually is Lymphoedema?
The British Lymphology Society
The information on this page has been sourced from the British Lymphology Society. This society is a dynamic and innovative body providing a strong professional voice and support for those involved in the care and treatment of people with lymphoedema and related lymphatic disorders, including lipoedema.
How can we help?
There are four main pillars of lymphoedema treatment, some of which can be self-managed by the patient.
Movement, Skin care, Lymphatic Drainage and Compression.
At L&R we provide a range of products to help manage lymphoedema.
Myths and misconceptions of lymphoedema
Below we look at a myth and debunk it with the help of the world-leading clinicians and researchers at the BLS.
Far from it!
There are an estimated 450,000 people in the UK receiving treatment for lymphoedema, and we know there are many more people who have yet to be diagnosed.
Any movement is a fantastic way of boosting lymphatic flow and should be a key part of your self-care routine. Build up gradually and keep an eye on your swelling.
The main causes of lymphoedema are actually obesity and immobility.
Cancer treatment can also cause lymphoedema, and can happen anywhere on the body.
It is most common in the arms and legs, and some people are born with the condition.
It used to be thought that weight lifting increased swelling, but research now shows that it is a fantastic way of boosting lymphatic flow.
When you first start lifting weights, use low weights and low reps and gradually build up your strength.
Swimming is a great activity if you have lymphoedema, as it provides gentle exercise and hydrostatic pressure that can aid in lymphatic circulation and reduce swelling. You can wear an old compression garment while swimming, however, avoid using new or expensive garments due to chlorine damage
Swelling can happen for a number of reasons and should never be ignored. Whatever the reason, the lymphatic drainage system is not working properly.
One of the best ways to help it work better is to be more active.
If the swelling lasts for more than 3 months, it becomes a chronic oedema, which is lymphoedema.
