TAKING CARE OF LYMPHOEDEMA

The following excerpts are taken from the BLS pamphlet - Strategy for Lymphoedema Care by Professor P.S. Mortimer, St. George's Hospital,Tooting, London.

'The patient faced with swelling, often of sudden onset, should receive:

An explanation relating to the likely underlying cause, i.e. proper diagnosis, and advice on existing treatment
The provision of care according to minimum standards.
The option of additional treatment, if appropriate and desirable,
The offer of more information and advice through a regional representative who specialises in lymphoedema, or through a lymphoedema support group.

Drug therapy is of no proven value. As a result, patients are often told nothing can be done and no positive steps are taken to improve matters. A negative attitude then prevails from the medical profession, and a handicapped and disillusioned patient results.

Lymphoedema is essentially incurable but the major manifestations, namely swelling and infection (cellulitis) can be improved and controlled.

Central to management of the condition is "the patient's understanding of what to do and what not to do."