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| DIAGRAM OF THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM |
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What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is the swelling of a body part that results from the build up of lymph fluid in the tissues.
The lymphatic system consists of lymph fluid, lymph vessels (which travel close to blood vessels) and lymph nodes (which work like filters and also help to defend the body against infection). It works to drain lymph fluid from the body's tissues back into the circulatory system.
There are lymph nodes all around the body, including the armpit, neck, chest, abdomen and groin.
What Causes Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema can occur when lymph nodes or vessels are damaged or blocked, eg: from surgery or radiotherapy, or if the lymph system is poorly developed or not functioning properly.
Lymphoedema does not necessarily occur immediately after damage to the lymph system. It may develop months or years later.
Most people who have Surgery or Radiotherapy to the Lymph Nodes will NOT develop Lymphoedema.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Lymphoedema?
Some possible early signs of Lymphoedema include:
- Discomfort or pain in the limb or body part.
- Heaviness, tightness or fullness in the limb or body part.
- Swelling in the limb or body part (you may notice that clothing or jewellery is becoming tight).
- Reduced movement.
If you experience these symptoms, or you believe that you are at risk of developing Lymphoedema, you are encouraged to have an assessment by a Lymphoedema Therapist.
Can Lymphoedema be treated?
It is not possible to cure Lymphoedema, however it can be managed and the risk of pain, poor mobility and infection can be reduced.
What can the Lymphoedema Program Offer?
- Assessment by a Lymphoedema Therapist and an individual treatment plan.
- Lymphoedema risk assessment and prevention strategies.
- Self management advice regarding skin care, self-massage and exercise.
- Manual Lymphatic Draining (MLD) and compression bandaging when required.
- Prescription of graduated compression garments. The cost of garments is not covered by the service. Some financial assistance may be available for clients who are Victorian residents through the Mercy Lymphoedema Compression Garment Program.
- Multidisciplinary Team Care including - Physiotherapy, Allied Health Assistants, Podiatry, Dietetics and Social Work.
Do I need a referral?
Although a referral from a Doctor or other Health Professional is not essential, it is preferred as it can provide very useful information that will assist in assessment and management.
Contact Details:
Please contact the Lymphoedema Program on (02) 60 517 400 if you require more information or if you wish to make an appointment.
Links:
Mercy Lymphoedema Compression Garment Program
http://www.mercy.com.au/html/s02_article/article_view.asp?id=1191&nav_cat_id=158&nav_top_id=78
Picture Source: National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (2008), From Brochure - Lymphoedema - What you Need to Know. (www.nbocc.org.au)
