Understanding Lymphoedema & How We Can Help 

At Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland, we understand the daily challenges faced by those living with lymphoedema. That’s why our dedicated Lymphoedema Service is here to provide expert care, support, and guidance to help people manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

What is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is a condition that causes swelling, most often in the arms or legs, due to a problem with the body’s lymphatic drainage system. It can affect people of all ages and backgrounds and may be caused by cancer, cancer treatments, infections, trauma, or other conditions. Importantly, lymphoedema doesn’t only affect cancer patients—it can occur for many reasons and requires professional assessment and support.

Our Holistic Approach to Care

Our Lymphoedema Team offers tailored treatment plans to meet each individual’s needs. At your first appointment, we’ll assess how the swelling affects your everyday life and create a personalised plan to help you manage the symptoms.

Your Treatment Plan May Include:

• Skin care to reduce the risk of infection
• Compression therapy, such as bandages, stockings or sleeves
• Exercise advice to encourage movement and lymph flow
• Massage techniques and gentle self-care routines
• Lymph taping using special therapeutic tape
• Physiotouch, a gentle suction tool to stimulate lymphatic flow

We aim to empower patients to manage their condition independently where possible, with support from carers if needed.

Where is the Service Available?

We run clinics in Dalston, Penrith, and Wigton, and for those unable to travel, we may be able to offer home visits. The service is open to those with both cancer-related and non-cancer-related lymphoedema.

How to Access Our Lymphoedema Service

To access our service, referrals are required from a GP or health professional. If lymphoedema is suspected, we recommend speaking to your doctor, who can assess the cause and refer you for specialist care if appropriate.

Supporting Our Local Community

Our Lymphoedema Service is just one way we’re supporting individuals and families across North and East Cumbria. We believe in providing compassionate, expert care that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.