What is the treatment for lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is an ongoing condition that has no known cure. The main goal of treatment is to reduce the swelling and keep it to a minimum. It is very important to treat lymphoedema in its early stages to prevent further swelling and complications such as infection. If a cause is found then the cause needs to be treated, e.g. cancer. For patients with mild to moderate swelling of their limbs a treatment regimen called Complex Physical (Lymphatic/Lymphoedema) Therapy (C.P.T./C.L.T.) is recommended. This regimen consists of 4 main parts. • Skin care – this involves keeping the skin clean to reduce infection, the use of emollients to restore and maintain skin suppleness, and keratolytics to remove hard, dead skin. • Simple lymphatic drainage – this is a gentle massage technique that uses simple hand movements to try to move the swelling out of the affected area. The patient, relative or caregiver is taught the technique. • Compression bandaging, sleeve or stocking to help prevent swelling
