Embarrassing Illnesses

Cellulitis

Many people with lymphoedema find that they experience repeated episodes of cellulitis. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep layer of skin (dermis) and the layer of fat and soft tissues (the subcutaneous tissues) that lie underneath the skin.

Symptoms of cellulitis include redness and inflammation of the skin, pain, and a general feeling of being unwell.

Cellulitis can usually be successfully treated with antibiotics.

If it is felt that you are particularly vulnerable to cellulitis, you may be given an 'emergency supply' of antibiotics, which you can then use if you notice the initial signs of an infection.

Psychological affects of lymphoedema

Living with a chronic condition that affects the way you look can cause a great deal of distress. The condition can seem particularly cruel as many people will develop the condition after experiencing treatment for cancer.

If you find that you have been feeling particularly down for the last few months and you no longer take pleasure in the things you usually enjoy, then you might be experiencing a period of depression. You should talk to your GP or members of your lymphoedema treatment team as there are a range of successful treatments for depression.

Talking to other people who also have lymphoedema can be reassuring and decrease feelings of isolation, stress and anxiety.

Also try to take reassurance in the fact that the Complex Decongestive Therapy plan has proved successful in the treatment of lymphoedema, and if you persevere with treatment your symptoms should become less noticeable and troublesome.