Today is World Lymphoedema Day, which marks the start of Lymphoedema Awareness Week which will run through until the 11th March.
But what is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a long-term (chronic) condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It develops when the body’s lymphatic system does not work properly. The lymphatic system is a network of channels and glands throughout the body that helps fight infection and drain excess fluid from tissues.
Lymphoedema affects over 450,000 people in the UK and the number is rising.
The theme of Lymphoedema Awareness Week this year is the ‘Every Body Can’ campaign, which was launched by the British Lymphology Society to encourage people who have Lymphoedema/ or at risk of developing, to become and stay active.
The British Lymphology Society have produced some useful resources covering what Lymphoedema is, some facts and top tips. Click here to access these resources
This week Hospice at Home West Cumbria will be focusing on staying active and things you can do to help your lymphatic system.
If you have any questions about any of the information we share this week, you can contact out Lymphoedema Team on 01900 705200 or email us at info@hhwc.org.uk
