A CHARITY that offers palliative care is marking Lymphoedema Awareness Week by raising awareness.
The Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Liebenrood Road in Reading offers a range of support for cancer patients living with lymphoedema in the west of Berkshire – the only such NHS-commissioned service.
Lymphoedema Specialist Physiotherapist Fiona Harland said: “Lymphoedema is swelling that happens when the lymphatic drainage system isn’t working efficiently.
“It can often happen in our patients who have had cancer because they have had lymph nodes removed as part of their cancer treatment, or they have had radiotherapy so their drainage system isn’t working all that well.
“Swelling can accumulate and patients can have symptoms of heavy, achy and swollen limbs.”
She said that this can sometimes affect mobility and grip. Clothing or shoes may become a difficult fit depending on the affected part of the body.
“It can affect someone with their work, leisure, activities and emotionally it can be difficult for our patients as they can often get comments from other people about their body,” Ms Harland continued.
Every year, The Duchess of Kent House Hospice supports around 450 patients with cancer-related lymphoedema. A team of four assess and diagnose patients, and help educate people with treatments.
“We work with patients to give them support and find out what their priorities are so we can help plan treatment tailored to them,” Ms Harland said.
“We might be teaching techniques to do themselves to help manage their swelling, such as specialist massage or compression garments. We also do hands-on treatment ourselves like lymphatic drainage massage.
“We know a lot of our patients can feel isolated and the most rewarding part of my role is seeing patients becoming more confident and feeling more in control of their symptoms. Our team are great, they are creative and enthusiastic and looking for new ways to support our patients.
“One man we supported was receiving treatment for prostate cancer and had a swollen leg that meant he couldn’t drive. He got on board with the techniques we showed him and because of that, he was able to drive again and even booked a holiday before his next round of cancer treatment.
“More than anything he said he felt relieved and supported and he knew he could contact us if he needed to.
“Knowing we have made a difference is what we work for at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice.”
For more details, log on to: sueryder.org
