There are several types of conditions associated with chronic oedema (or swelling). Lymphoedema (also spelled lymphedema) is one type of chronic oedema condition involving long-term tissue swelling that occurs when the lymphatic system, a delicate network of fluid drainage tubes in our bodies, fails to work properly.
When the lymphatic system becomes overloaded, tissue fluid builds up. This results in swelling that leads to inflammation. The inflamed tissues can become hard, fatty and at risk of serious skin infections known as cellulitis.
Some are born with lymphatic system problems (known as primary lymphoedema) and others are a risk of developing the condition after injuries, cancer treatments or after experiencing problems with their circulatory system (known as secondary lymphoedema).
Millions of people are affected worldwide by lymphoedema. One in five people, for example, diagnosed with breast cancer are at risk of developing lymphoedema as a side effect of breast cancer treatment. The good news is that when detected early and with the right information, care and treatments, breast cancer-related lymphoedema is potentially reversible.
Many patients living with lymphoedema wonder why they weren’t told about the condition before they started swelling – this is where we hope to empower you so you never have to ask this question.
Empowerment through lymphoedema education.
The first step to helping yourself is knowing how! The path to detecting and managing lymphoedema successfully, is through receiving the right education, healthcare and practising self-care.
Equipping yourself with knowledge and the latest in scientific recommendations allows you to spot the early signs of lymphoedema and seek medical care early. Education allows you to re-direct your focus from worry and fear about the unknown to an action plan for self-care and management.
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