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Types of lymphoedema

Types of Lymphoedema

There are two main types of Lymphoedema. Lymphoedema can be described as Primary or Secondary depending on the underlying cause.

Secondary lymphoedema occurs when a normal lymphatic system is damaged due to another disease or injury. The lymphoedema is considered secondary to the other condition. The commonest disease to cause lymphoedema is cancer and this is mainly due to cancer treatments such as surgery and radiotherapy. Other causes are trauma and surgery for other conditions such as vein surgery.

Primary lymphoedema results from the abnormal development of the lymphatic system rather than damage. Most cases are sporadic and symptoms can occur at any stage of life. The underlying abnormality eventually leads to a reduction in the capacity of the lymphatics and development of swelling.

In some parts of the world a specific infection, know as filariasis, causes many cases of lymphoedema but this is not found in the UK.

There are various treatments available for Lymphoedema.

Testimonials

PATIENT LF

It would be impossible for me to fully explain the difference that the improvement in my Lymphoedema has made to my quality of life so far - Thank you!

PATIENT LF

PATIENT KW

 To go from despair at an an ever-growing leg to delight at a manageable condition has been a journey, but one with a happy ending. OLP has made this happen and I don't miss an opportunity to sing your praises to others unfortunate enough to have lymphoedema.

PATIENT KW

PATIENT GM

Without your surgery on my arm I don’t think I could of done this , I climbed Kilimanjaro on New Year’s Day

PATIENT GM

PATIENT DP

I think the service you have given me has been the best medical experience I have ever had, the team is very professional but with a really great empathy for the patient which makes one feel very comfortable and cared for.

PATIENT DP

PATIENT PH

My left leg is still staying soft and maintaining a good shape. I have noticed a reduction in my thigh area recently just by looking!

PATIENT PH

PATIENT VS

The surgery has made a big difference to my mobility, which has enabled me to do things that I want to do. The pain has lessened, which has improved my quality of life. Everyone in the practice I've had contact with has been kind and understanding. They've worked hard to make things better for me.

PATIENT VS

PATIENT FH

From the initial zoom consultation, through to the ICG scan appointment and the surgery itself, I felt complete trust in your care. I also really appreciated your expert and balanced evalutation of the likely outcomes in my particular case. The surgery itself was inspiring and I feel incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to have experienced this surgical procedure.

PATIENT FH

PATIENT SL

Three years ago my husband called OLP to ask about surgery for me. I was so low and anxious after cancer treatment that I couldn't engage with anything and we didn't know where to turn for help. It was the first time that anyone had really listened and given me hope and that call changed my life. Thank you so much for your kindness and understanding.

PATIENT SL

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