Patient Information

Click here to view/download this leaflet in PDF format.

Introduction


This leaflet will provide information on compression garments which play an important role in the management of lymphoedema.  If you have any questions after reading this leaflet, please speak to one of the team. 


Compression Garment


•    Your garment will help to provide support to the tissues and limit the amount of fluid building up in the limb (arm or leg).


•    Wearing your garment may feel strange or uncomfortable at first.  This is usually brief and within a few days should begin to feel more comfortable and supportive.


•    Make sure you wear the garment as this will control your lymphoedema. 


Useful Hints


•    Put your garment on first thing in the morning when your swelling is at its least and remove at night.
•    Do not sleep in your garment unless you are advised to by your therapist.


•    Moisturise your skin, preferably at night.  If applying during the day, make sure it is well absorbed before putting your garment on.


•    Always ensure the garment is evenly distributed over the limb (arm or leg).  Rubber gloves can help to grip the material to readjust as necessary, removing any creases or wrinkles in the fabric.


•    Always exercise with your garment on.  The muscle movement against the garment will encourage lymph drainage.


•    You will be prescribed two garments, one to wash and one to wear.  Try and alternate these evenly to keep in the best condition. 


•    Garments should be cared for according to the manufacturer’s instructions and replaced every 6 months.  Please request further compression as required every 4-6 months, by contacting patient choice directly on 01823 246800. If there are any issues with the fit, then contact the clinic.


•    If you are having difficulty applying your garment speak to your therapist who will be able to discuss various aids and techniques to help you.


Avoid:
•    Having creases or wrinkles in the garment.
•    Folding over the ends of the garment.
•    Cutting or altering the garment.
How to apply your garment
•    Your therapist will advise on the correct way to apply your garment.

Remove garment and inform your doctor or therapist if:
•    Your fingers/toes start to turn blue or purple.
•    You experience any numbness or new tingling sensations.
•    You start to feel short of breath.
•    Your garment is a poor fit, digging in or causing pain/skin irritation.
•    If you have an infection known as cellulitis in your limb (arm or leg), follow the advice of the healthcare professional who will explain the best way to wear the compression so it can be tolerated.

Further information and resources

Staffs District Nurse – 01782 831110
Patient Choice – 01823 246800, option 1

Our Contact Details


Lymphoedema Clinic 01782 676688
UHNS.lymphoedema@nhs.net
or message directly through Patient Knows Best (PKB)

 

Click here to view/download this leaflet in PDF format.

Introduction


This leaflet will provide general advice on how to help you manage your arm limb(s) following your visit to the Lymphoedema Clinic.  If you have any questions after reading this leaflet, please speak to one of the team. 


Skin Care


•    Moisturise the arm(s) every day at night after removing any sleeves or gloves or other compression.
•    Apply the cream and moisturise in a downward motion towards your hand.  
•    If your skin is dry and flaky, you must first wash with a soap substitute before moisturising your arm(s), such as a fragrance-free cleanser (sometimes referred to as an emollient cream) and dry the arm(s) daily.  


Exercise


•    Movement and exercise are key to managing your Lymphoedema.  
•    Please continue with any exercises provided after your operation which you can continue as part of your long term Lymphoedema management.
Compression`
If you are prescribed compression sleeves to wear, these will be ordered with your consent and will be delivered by Patient Choice, who are an independent prescription home delivery service. 
Sleeves should be replaced every 6 months.


If your sleeve(s) is well fitting and you a require new sleeve(s), please contact Patient Choice directly on 01823 246800 


If the sleeve does not fit correctly or is causing issues such as new pain, pins and needles, numbness, slipping down, pinching or creasing or if you require a general review, please contact the Lymphoedema Clinic on 01782 676688.  If you have been discharged from the clinic, please contact your GP.  

 
Signs of Cellulitis


•    Typically, only affects one limb.
•    Redness/heat travelling up the limb usually in a block of colour 
•    Pain.
•    High Temperature.
•    Nausea/vomiting.
•    Hot Sweats.
•    Rigors (shaking).
•    Loss of appetite.

If in any doubt, please seek an urgent medical review with your GP or walk-in centre if cellulitis is suspected.
Please note:  As a nurse led clinic, we are unable to prescribe antibiotics/pain relief.


Further information 


Lymphoedema Support Network - www.lymphoedema.org
Patient Choice – 01823 246800

Contact details 


Lymphoedema Clinic 01782 676688
UHNS.lymphoedema@nhs.net
or message directly through Patient Knows Best (PKB)