St. Clare’s Hospice provides a lymphoedema clinic to the residents of South of Tyne for adults over the age of 18, although under certain circumstances referrals from outside of the area can be accepted.

 

The lymphoedema team consists of a lymphoedema Practitioner and two key worker staff nurses. They are all members of the British Lymphology Society (BLS). The clinic now operates between two sites, the Hospice site and the Cleadon Park Centre South Shields.

 

Lymphoedema is a swelling usually to the arms or legs caused by blockage or damage to the lymphatic system. Lymph accumulates in the tissues and swelling (oedema occurs). Lymphoedema can often cause difficulty with mobility and everyday functions.

 

There are two types of lymphoedema, primary and secondary.

Primary lymphoedema occurs because the lymphatic system hasn’t formed properly.

Secondary lymphoedema may be caused by cancer or following treatment. It can develop if the lymph nodes are blocked with cancer, if they have been removed by surgery or by a build up of scar tissue caused by radiotherapy treatment.

 

Treatment in the lymphoedema clinic will involve:-

·        The application of compression bandaging and garments

·        Massage to assist with lymphatic drainage.

·        Skin care and exercise advice

 

·        G.P

·        Consultant

·        Specialist Nurse

 

Referrals can be made via telephone, fax or post. For further information please contact Linda Brown on:

Tel:      0191 451 6378

Fax:     0191 451 6356