Mother has lymphoedema in her right leg. How do I get a referral to a lymphoedema nurse? Can I get compression stockings for her ?

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Hi all

My mother has ovarian cancer which has spread and has caused considerable swelling in her right leg. She is receiving 6 cycles of carboplatin, but her swelling has not improved and it is causing problems for her to walk 

How would I get her referred to a lymphoedema nurse and how long does this normally take? I would like to try compression stockings, but I don’t want to get the wrong ones and risk making the swelling worse. 

Has anyone had any experience of this? 

many thanks 

Sandra 

  • I think you need to ask either the oncology team treating your mother, or her GP, for a referral. The time this takes varies from area to area, like any other NHS referral. I was seen about 4 weeks after the referral which in my case came from the oncology team.

    I also think you shouldn't get compression stockings before your mother is seen by a lymphoedema practitioner, as they will be able to get the most suitable ones.

  • Thank you Angus for taking the time to reply.  Have you noticed any difference in swelling since seeing the practitioner?
    My mum sees her consultant on 10th May, so I’ll ask and let you know how I get on. Many thanks 

  • I asked the registrar for a referral to the lymphoedema specialist and today was our appointment.  She’s a qualified physiotherapist.

    she asked lots of questions, measured both legs and has ordered a tailor made compression stocking. We also need to look after the skin, using dermal shower gel every morning and cetraban every night. She starts exercises also. 
    what a relief, it feels like we are finally getting somewhere xx

  • Very glad to hear your news. There is a big problem in getting access to Lymphoedema services and availability varies across the country. Once you do get to the right person the care is very good, however.

    You may be able to find more information from the Lymphoedema Support Network (https://www.lymphoedema.org)

  • Collected the compression stocking and the cetraban and dermol yesterday afternoon. . Mum is doing some of the exercises. Her skin looks a lot less dry thanks to the cetraban. 

    I hope the swelling starts to come down, but it’s taken 6 months to get the stocking