Lymphoedema Service
The Lymphoedema Clinic was set up in 1992 to treat patients with swelling, most frequently affecting the limbs, but also to the trunk or face.
Specialist nurses, experienced in the treatment of lymphoedema, run the clinic.
What happens at the clinic?
Initial visits take about two hours. During this time, the nurse obtains a full history from the patient to ensure they receive the most appropriate treatment. These details include:
- Personal information (name, age, etc.)
- Family history
- Social background
- Medical history
- Current medication
- History of swelling and its effects
We may need to check your blood flow in each limb to ensure your circulation is stuitable for wearing a stocking, if considered an option.
Measurements of your arms and legs will help us calculate how much fluid there is in areas affected.
Having completed these, we can then advise on the four elements that make up the treatment of the areas affected:
- Skincare – We’ll advise you on skincare, and how to protect yourself from infection and injury.
- Massage – To help you move fluid, we’ll teach you a form of self-massage.
- Exercise – We’ll show you basic exercises you can follow at home to help keep joints supple and help to move fluid.
- Containment – We may fit you with a compression garment. You’d need to wear this every day – morning till night.
Follow-up appointments
These appointments take about an hour and we will?check:
- The condition of your skin for signs of infection, dryness or firmness
- The measurements of your limbs and compare with previous results.
- The compression garment for correct fit and elasticity.
- Movement of your limbs.
- Answer any questions you may have.
Our commitment to you
As part of our care and treatment, we aim to:
- Treat you as an individual.
- Consider your needs and rights.
- Maintain confidentiality.
- Ensure maximum privacy.
- Give you sufficient time.
- Provide support.
- Give clear explanations of your condition and treatment.
If you have any concerns whatsoever, please ask the nurse during your appointment.? Alternatively, please telephone: 0191 569 9759