What is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is a swelling of the tissues which occurs when fluid builds up due to poor lymphatic drainage.

It can involve any part of the body, but it is most common in the arms and legs.

The lymphatic system transports fluid from the body’s tissues back into the circulation through a network of lymphatic vessels. It is when these drainage routes are blocked or damaged or have failed to develop properly that a build-up of fluid in the tissue occurs.

  • Primary Lymphoedema is usually caused by an abnormal or underdeveloped lymphatic system.
  • Secondary Lymphoedema is due to damage or blockage of the lymphatic’s caused by a secondary source such as cancer treatment, surgery, infection, trauma, obesity or poor vein function.

Lymphoedema cannot be cured, however with treatment from a Lymphoedema specialist and self-care strategies, the condition can often be managed and quality of life maintained.

Lymphoedema cannot be cured, however, with treatment from a Lymphoedema specialist and self-care strategies, the condition can often be managed and quality of life maintained.

The Lymphoedema nurse-led service provides assessment and treatment for patients with Lymphoedema, due to cancer and non-cancer causes.

The service provides support and education to patients in a clinical setting or at home, if patients are housebound (and in a hospice setting if appropriate).

We also provide support via a telephone clinic.

Possible treatment options

  • Holistic assessment and diagnosis of Lymphoedema

  • Individual care plans tailored to patients needs

  • Self-care strategies to empower patients to manage their condition

  • Reduce the risk of infection

  • Skincare

  • Compression garments

  • Multi-layer Lymphoedema bandaging

  • Simple lymphatic drainage massage

  • Manual lymphatic drainage massage

  • Deep breathing exercises

  • Kinesio taping

  • Low level laser therapy

  • Lymph assist therapy

Our partnership approach

Lymphoedema is a lifelong condition. Treatment aims are for patients and carers to be able to self-manage their condition, with support from the Lymphoedema team.

Effective management can only be achieved on a long term basis, if you commit to continuing with your jointly agreed care plan.

For further information contact the Lymphoedema team at:

Barbara Castle Way Health Centre, Simmons’ St, Blackburn BB2 1AX 01254 283 929

Any health professionals can refer you to the service at the above address.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

If you have some concerns, questions or need advice on our services, you can contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0800 234 6088 or contact The PALS Team. 

Need mental health support?

Call 0800 953 0110 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or call NHS 111, selecting option 2.

Text support can be reached by messaging Shout, which is a free, confidential and 24/7 texting service. Simply text ‘Shout’ to 85258. Further support is available through Kooth offering self-help resources, online messaging and support for young people aged 11 to 25. 

Additionally, the Hub of Hope provides a directory of mental health support and services across the UK.

This leaflet is available in alternative languages and formats upon request. Please speak to a member of our staff to arrange this.