It’s a chronic, long-term condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It can affect any part of the body, but usually develops in the arms or legs.  Symptoms can include an aching, heavy feeling in the affected limb. Lymphoedema is caused by a problem with the lymphatic system. This is a network of vessels and glands distributed throughout the body. Its major functions are to help fight infection and drain excess fluid from tissues. Abnormal development of the lymphatic system, damage to it and/or an increase in fluid in the body tissues can all lead to Lymphoedema.

Watch our short film below, where Chris, one of our Specialists explains more about what Lymphoedema is, what sufferers experience and how we help to alleviate symptoms.

Amongst the many front line staff working for Cornwall Hospice Care are two Clinical Specialists, Helen Treleaven and Chris Jones.  They care for and support people suffering with Lymphoedema. Their patients visit them for appointments at both Mount Edgcumbe and St Julia’s Hospices and in many cases say Helen and Chris ensure they can continue living their life despite the condition.

Watch our short film to find out more about some of the new techniques used by Helen to treat patients that she was not able to before.  This is thanks to training she undertook, which was paid for by one of our corporate sponsors Ann’s Cottage Surf Shops.

People are understandably worried about the implications for those who live with lymphoedema in the current Coronavirus situation.

Our colleagues over at the Lymphoedema Support Network have been working hard to reassure those with the condition.  Their experts assure us that in nearly all cases lymphoedema alone will not make you more susceptible to the virus and together with compression garment manufacturers have helped us to create some advice and suggestions which we hope will offer some assurance and guidance during these times.

Read their Covid-19 information sheet HERE.

They have also produced a number of self-management videos to help you – to watch them visit their website HERE.