Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a swelling of one or more body parts due to abnormal accumulation of protein rich fluid in the tissues. It can affect any part of the body but is most commonly seen in an arm or a leg. Although thought to be relatively uncommon, a recent study estimated that at least 100,000 people in the UK may be affected by this condition
Lymphoedema is not curable, but there are ways to control and manage symptoms that can also help to improve quality of life.
At UHS we have a lymphoedema nurse, who sees patients in a specialist lymphoedema clinic at Southampton General Hospital. They are a registered nurse and a member of the British Lymphology Society. They have undertaken additional training for this role.
Our service
Our service treats all patients with lymphoedema from across Southampton, Portsmouth and surrounding areas. There is also a separate cancer-related lymphoedema service for patients under the care of a Southampton based oncologist.
At the initial appointment you will be offered a full assessment, taking into account your past medical history and current medications and treatment considerations, from which lymphoedema care will be discussed and jointly planned between the nurse and you to meet your individual needs. The plan may include: skin care, exercise, compression garments, bandaging, lymphatic drainage and lymphatic taping.
The lymphoedema nurse will aim to teach patients to manage their lymphoedema and will support them until they are confident in their own self-care.
Further information
The following websites provide advice and support for patients:
For clinicians
Clinicians should send referrals to: uhs.vascularreferrals@uhs.nhs.uk
Information for clinicians about Lymphoedema can be found on the British Lymphology Society website.
How to find us
Clinics are run twice a week in the cardiovascular and thoracic outpatient department on D-level East wing at Southampton General Hospital.