Different locations
Lymphoedema can affect limbs and other areas of the body, depending on the individual and underlying cause.
Understanding Lymphoedema
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a long-term condition that causes swelling in the body's tissues when the lymphatic system is unable to drain fluid effectively.
More than simply swelling
Lymphoedema can affect different parts of the body and can vary considerably from one person to another.
For some people it may affect mobility, comfort, clothing, the need to wear compression garments, skin care or everyday activities.
The way lymphoedema affects one person may therefore be very different from the way it affects somebody else.
Why understanding matters
Lymphoedema is not always visible or well understood.
A person may need additional time, consideration or assistance even when their condition is not immediately obvious.
Lymphoedema is individual
LymphAware does not assume that everyone living with lymphoedema has the same needs or experiences.
Different needs
Some people may use compression garments, require assistance with mobility or have other practical considerations.
Different experiences
Symptoms, treatment needs and day-to-day impact can vary significantly, which is why patient-selected information is important.
Cellulitis awareness
People living with lymphoedema may be at increased risk of cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the deeper layers of the skin.
Information about cellulitis on LymphAware will be reviewed carefully with appropriate healthcare input before the patient pilot.
LymphAware supports communication
LymphAware is not intended to diagnose lymphoedema or tell healthcare professionals how an individual should be treated.
Its role is to help a person communicate relevant information they have chosen to make available.
Clinical assessment and professional medical advice remain important whenever healthcare decisions are required.
Helping people understand the person, not just the condition.
LymphAware is being developed so that someone living with lymphoedema can communicate the information that matters to them without having to rely solely on repeated explanations.