Lymphoedema
If the drainage routes through the lymphatic system become blocked or damaged, lymph accumulates in the tissues and swelling [oedema] occurs. Unlike other oedemas, lymphoedema can lead to changes in the tissues such as fibrosis [hardness] and an increased risk of infection. The swelling then becomes even more difficult to control.PRIMARY LYMPHOEDEMA
Primary Lymphoedema is usually present at birth and may be due to the underdevelopment of the lymphatic system. It may however not present symptomatically until later in life when demands on the lymphatic system become such that the system is unable to cope with the increased load and swelling [oedema] occurs.SECONDARY LYMPHOEDEMA
Secondary Lymphoedema occurs when an otherwise healthy lymphatic system becomes damaged. This may occur either as a result of treatment for cancer following surgery or radiotherapy or as result of trauma to the system. For example - infection, injury and burns or following cosmetic and surgical procedures.INCIDENCE and TREATMENT
Lymphoedema is an underestimated health problem with about 2% of the UK population being affected to varying degrees. The prevalence of lymphoedema in women treated for breast cancer is estimated at about 25-30%. [Journal of Clinical Nursing]. Lymphoedema may occur directly following treatment for cancer or may occur several months or years post cancer [LSN UK ].Many medical practioners and health care professionals are unaware of treatment available for the symptoms of lymphoedema and many doctors are sceptical and negative about treatments offered.
While CDT has been the treatment of choice for lymphoedema and many other conditions for many years, the UK health system has only recently begun to realise the effects CDT can have in the successful management of this debilitating condition. Provision of CDT varies throughout the UK and it is more often the case that as a result of financial and time constraints, lymphoedema clinics within the NHS are only at best able to offer compression hosiery as part of their treatment programmes. It is for this reason that many patients seek private care with MLD therapists who, without the constraints of time, are able to offer up to twice daily MLD, bandaging and physiotherapy where needed.