UK Lymphedema Information: Lymphoedema Support Groups (EKLSG) - lymphoedema uk, lymphedema information, primary lymphedema, secondary lymphodema, lymphedema support, lymphedema cure, lymphoedema swelling, support group

lymphoedema uk, lymphedema information, primary lymphedema, secondary lymphodema, lymphedema support, lymphedema cure, lymphoedema swelling, support groupWhether you have been newly diagnosed, or a Lymphedema sufferer for many years, we sincerely hope that you will find this site a sanctuary that you can visit to locate information and meet with others in a similar position.

lymphoedema uk, lymphedema information, primary lymphedema, secondary lymphodema, lymphedema support, lymphedema cure, lymphoedema swelling, support group

Lymphoedema is a condition which may affect anyone, at any time. However, it occurs with greater frequency in females. It is often distressing, can be debilitating, and is often also painful, showing itself as swelling of the limbs and body. The most common form of lymphedema is in a limb, but it can affect any part of the body or internal organs. At the end of the 20th century, it is far more common than is accepted by the medical profession. Lymphedema can occur at any time, once the lymphatics are damaged. Sometimes, it can start immediately and lasts for life; the oedema may occur for a while then disappear, and may or may not re-occur; or it may appear years after the event in which the lymphatics are damaged, and can be triggered by a seemingly trivial event, such as sunburn, carrying heavy weights or a long flight. Primary Lymphoedema is usually determined from birth and is often due to the under-development of the lymphatic system - usually too few lymphatics, but there may also be cases where the lymph vessels be adequate in number, but are very dilated and do not pump properly. It can develop at any stage of life, but is most likely to occur at adolescence (known as lymphoedema praecox). It is less likely to start later in life (lymphoedema tarda). Primary lymphoedema usually worsens quite slowly. Secondary Lymphoedema occurs where the lymphatic system becomes impaired following surgery and/or radiotherapy (as in cancer treatment) or as a result of infection, severe injury, burns or trauma. It may worsen quite rapidly.

lymphoedema uk, lymphedema information, primary lymphedema, secondary lymphodema, lymphedema support, lymphedema cure, lymphoedema swelling, support group

Unfortunately, there is a general lack of medical knowledge and expertise in giving an early diagnosis and correct referral for treatment. Too often, doctors will claim that it is a trivial condition, which a person has to live with. In fact, Lymphoedema may often have an immense impact on a person's quality of life. Someone with Lymphedema will usually feel any of the following symptoms: Feeling of tightness and heaviness in the limb, which can result in a difficulty of movement; A gradual thickening of the skin on the affected limb. Lymph may also leak through the skin as the condition worsens; Deep aching pains or shooting pains up the limb; Aching buttocks (leg lymphoedema) or back of the shoulder (arm lymphoedema); Pins and needles in the limb; A feeling of tightness or tenderness in the elbow or back of the knee; Pains in the joints (e.g. elbow, knee and ankle), similar to arthritis, and may be diagnosed as this; Tenderness in the groin of the affected leg; "Blown-up" abdomen if a leg is affected or in "lymphoedema-all-over"; The limb or affected areas are warmer than other parts - if it becomes red, this suggests an infection which must be treated immediately; An intolerance to heat, especially in the affected limb (climatic, saunas, baths); Clothes or shoes do not fit properly. Fatigue often sets in. A person with the condition may have to adapt to an altered or more limited daily lifestyle, sometimes with a reduced working capability. Daily self-management of lymphoedema also requires a certain self-discipline.

lymphoedema uk, lymphedema information, primary lymphedema, secondary lymphodema, lymphedema support, lymphedema cure, lymphoedema swelling, support group





		East Kent Lymphoedema Support Group The East Kent Lymphoedema Support Group was established in 1999. We started with 12 members that have rapidly increased to around 80+. Whilst the majority of members are female, due to the nature of the condition, there are a growing number of men who also now attend. Ages range from around 20 up to 70+. The Group was set up under the umbrella of the Lymphoedema Support Network, to provide help and support for those in the county suffering from lymphedema. Meetings take place bi-monthly in Ashford. Speakers lead these on a range of topics connected with Lymphedema and its management. Talks have been on topics such as various alternative therapies, Manual Lymph Drainage, skin care, research in to Lymphoedema, and so forth. We also hold regular raffles and some members take part in fund-raising activities. Meetings also include the opportunity for members to purchase products for the treatment and management of the condition at a discounted price. These include booklets and leaflets, creams, vitamins, videos and skin glue. Many members find the support group provides them with the opportunity to meet and talk with people who are in a similar situation to them, and find that this often helps alleviate a sense of isolation and hopelessness, as well as making new friendships. The support group also operates to raise awareness of Lymphoedema within the local communities and the medical profession. Recently, the local Health Authority has expanded its services for Lymphedema provision, and a part of this change in policy may be attributed to the efforts of the group. Those living in East Kent, with either primary or secondary Lymphoedema, can now access support and treatment for their condition, through the Lymphoedema clinics at the main hospitals. They are also more than welcome to attend our bi-monthly meetings. If you are interested in attending a meeting of the East Kent Lymphoedema Support Group, or would like further information, please contact us by e-mail, by post addressed to Lymphoedema Clinic, Buckland Hospital, Coombe Valley Road, Dover, Kent, CT17 0HD, or by telephone on 01304 201624 ext: 43031. We look forward to welcoming you to our group.

East Kent Lymphoedema Support Group