Your Questions Answered: FAQ:

These questions have been answered using information produced and verified by accepted experts in their field and reflects current practice. The information has been designed to assist you in managing your condition and is not intended to replace advice you may receive from your health care practitioner. If you or your healthcare practitioner would like further information, to ask any questions about this information, to provide us with any feedback or to find out what research underpins it, please contact the Lymphatic Massage Academy on + 61 410 63 7778.

"Will I have Lymphoeedema for ever or will it eventually go away?"

Lymphoedema cannot be cured but, with appropriate treatment, its major symptoms, namely swelling and the risk of infection (cellulitis) can be improved and controlled. Skin and underlying tissues will also improve, function/mobility of the limb should increase and the psychological effects will be minimised.

"What treatment is there?"

Depending on the degree of your swelling, treatment programmes available from lymphatic practitioners may include Lymphatic Drainage Massage or Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), Self-Lymphatic drainage, and skin care – specific kinds of  massage – exercise advice, and at times compression of the swollen limb in the form of support garments such as stockings or sleeves are helpful. Used in combination, these measures are designed to improve lymph drainage, reduce swelling and limit infection. Psychological support to help you cope with this condition will also be offered by a trained practitioner.

"What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage aka Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)?"

MLD is a specialised form of massage, carried out by fully trained practitioners. It consists of rhythmical combing hand movements to expand the skin and to encourage lymphatic drainage. The aim of MLD is to stimulate and improve normal drainage in healthy areas of the body so that fluid can drain away from more swollen/congested areas much more easily. MLD can also help reduce pain/discomfort as well as improve the hard, firm tissues that can be so problematic. You will feel lighter and less heaviness and the puffiness bloating and/or fullness that come from stagnation and water retention will feel noticeably reduced.

"Is it safe to fly when I have a lymphatic issue?"

There is no robust evidence to prove flying makes lymphatic issues worse. However, anecdotal evidence does lead us to believe that it can – particularly during long haul flights associated with prolonged periods of inactivity, low cabin air pressure and poor air quality. Patients are advised to wear their compression garments (or purchase them for the flight), to try and keep the limbs moving (in-flight exercises are helpful) and to drink plenty of water.

"What is the difference between lymphoedema and lipoedema?"

Lymphoedema and Lipoedema are very different conditions although there are connections between them and many people live with both. Lymphoedema relates to a build-up of lymph (protein rich) fluid in the tissues as a result of the lymphatic system being damaged, overloaded or blocked. It can affect any part of the body and is seen in people of all ages and any sex.

Lipoedema is an abnormal deposit of fat cells in the tissues, which usually results in symmetrical, bi-lateral swelling of the lower limbs (and sometimes the arms) leading to disproportionate shape (narrow waist/large hips). The tissues affected by lipoedema are also painful and often bruise easily. It is generally seen in women only and can often be seen through several generations. Most patients are told they are overweight, but dieting often has little impact on reducing the swelling itself. Due to limb heaviness, mobility and exercise becomes increasingly difficult and general obesity can then become problematic. This in turn can lead to a secondary lymphoedema with all the added signs and symptoms.

"Do I have to wear compression garments and how do I get them on prescription?"

Compression garments cab be an important component of your treatment which will help to maintain and/or improve your lymphatic condition. They help to:

  • Limit the amount of fluid that builds up in your limb

  • Provide your muscles with a firm resistance to work against (which promotes fluid drainage)

  • Encourage fluid to move towards the body (where it may drain away more easily)

  • Provide support for stretched/inelastic skin

  • Help to soften tissues that may have become hard/firm.

It is very important that your garments fit properly and are suitable for the amount, extent and shape of the swelling that you have. An individual assessment by a trained practitioner is essential if the correct style, pressure and size of garment is to be selected and once measurements have been taken, s/he will organise a prescription (usually through your GP) Some patients are exempt from prescription charges (e.g. if your lymphoedema is due to cancer or cancer treatment).

"Is there any medication which I can take to help my lymphatic condition?"

At the moment there is no specific medication that will ‘cure’ or minimise a lymphatic condition – however certain drugs are sometimes introduced to address the symptoms that may arise as a result of having it e.g. antibiotics for an infection. Research, however, is ever on-going. For example, work is currently under way to measure the pumping action of the lymphatics .