Lymphoedema

Primary Lymphoedema is usually determined from birth, and arises due to some failure of the lymphatic system itself – usually with the underdevelopment of the lymphatic system. It may develop without any obvious cause at different stages in life, but particularly in adolescence.

Secondary Lymphoedema is the result of some problem outside the lymphatic system that prevents it working properly, such as surgery, radiotherapy, accident, infection, or chronic disease of the veins. In either case it is vitally important that a proper diagnosis is made and treatment prescribed as soon as possible.

Lymphoedema is a chronic disease; it cannot be cured, but it can be managed using a combination of treatments which can include massage, bandaging and compression garments. Failure to treat effectively can lead to recurrent bouts of infection (cellulitis), changes in the skin, severe swelling and hardening of the affected area and consequential loss of mobility.

Referrals for our Lymphoedema services are accepted from all health care professionals and are restricted to the St Margaret's Somerset Hospice catchment area.

The Specialist Lymphoedema service is available at St Margaret's Hospice at Taunton and Yeovil for in-patients and out-patients with chronic oedema regardless of cause. Four nurse specialists provide patient assessment and management including intensive courses of therapy, manual lymphatic drainage massage, and maintenance therapy.

Lymphoedema Support Groups
Support groups committed to raising awareness of the condition amongst doctors, nurses and the general public, are run in both Taunton and Yeovil. However, it is having the support of other people who are living with Lymphoedema that makes the group so special. Meetings usually involve a speaker of interest to the group, a fundraising raffle, and the opportunity to socialise in a friendly environment. Special events and and day trips are also organised.

Taunton Area Lymphoedema Support Group
Meetings are held at St Margaret's in Taunton
Please contact Suzanne Grogan on 01823 661601 for dates for 2008
or email

Yeovil Area Lymphoedema Support Group
Meetings are held on 3rd Tuesday of January, April, July and October from 14.30 to 16.30 at:
The Training Room. St Margaret's Hospice in Yeovil
Contact: The Lymphoedema Nurses on: 01935 709490
or email

Clinic times:

St. Margaret's in Taunton
08.00 – 18.00 Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs & Fri

Williton Community Hospital
1st & 4th Thursdays in the month

Burham on Sea Hospital
1st & 4th Fridays in the month

St. Margaret's in Yeovil
08.00 – 18.00 Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs & Fri

West Mendip Hospital, Glastonbury
2nd & 4th Thursdays in the month