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After Discharge from the Lymphoedema Service

Lymphoedema Services

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Last updated: July 2026
Next review: July 2028

Helping you manage your lymphoedema with confidence

Being discharged from the Lymphoedema Service means that your condition is currently stable and you have the knowledge and skills to manage it independently.

Your discharge will have been discussed with you by your Lymphoedema Nurse Specialist and agreed together.

Although you are no longer receiving regular appointments, it is important to continue caring for your lymphoedema every day. Looking after your skin, staying active and following your treatment plan can help keep your symptoms under control and reduce the risk of complications.

What Does Discharge Mean?

Discharge from the service does not mean your lymphoedema has gone away.

Lymphoedema is usually a long-term condition that requires ongoing self-management.

You should continue to follow the advice provided by your healthcare team and maintain the routines that help control your swelling.

If your symptoms worsen or your circumstances change, speak to your GP, who can discuss whether a referral back to the Lymphoedema Service is appropriate.

Looking After Your Skin

Healthy skin is one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of infection.

Every day you should:

  • Wash your skin gently using warm water.
  • Dry carefully, especially between your fingers, toes and skin folds.
  • Apply a moisturiser every day to keep your skin soft and healthy.
  • Check your skin for cuts, scratches, insect bites or blisters.
  • Protect your skin from injury wherever possible.

Even small breaks in the skin can increase the risk of infection.

Recognising Cellulitis

People with lymphoedema have a higher risk of developing cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that requires prompt treatment.

Seek medical advice as soon as possible if you notice:

  • Redness spreading across the skin.
  • Increased warmth.
  • New or worsening swelling.
  • Pain or tenderness.
  • Fever, chills or feeling generally unwell.

Early treatment with antibiotics can help prevent the infection from becoming more serious.

Continue Your Self-Management Plan

Even after discharge, it is important to continue any treatment plan recommended by your specialist.

This may include:

  • Wearing compression garments if prescribed.
  • Completing any exercises recommended by your therapist.
  • Keeping physically active.
  • Managing your weight where appropriate.
  • Elevating the affected limb when advised.
  • Attending routine replacement appointments for compression garments if applicable.

Small daily habits can make a significant difference in controlling lymphoedema over the long term.

Staying Active

Gentle movement encourages lymph fluid to flow and can help reduce swelling.

Activities such as:

  • Walking
  • Swimming
  • Gentle stretching
  • Exercises recommended by your therapist

can all support healthy lymphatic drainage.

Start gradually and avoid activities that cause significant pain or discomfort.

If Your Symptoms Get Worse

Sometimes lymphoedema can flare up despite good self-management.

Speak to your GP if you notice:

  • Increasing swelling.
  • Compression garments no longer fitting properly.
  • Repeated episodes of cellulitis.
  • Changes to your skin.
  • New pain or discomfort.

Your GP can discuss whether you should be referred back to the Lymphoedema Service.

Would You Like Further Treatment?

If you would like ongoing manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), you may wish to see a private practitioner.

When choosing a therapist, look for someone who is appropriately qualified and registered through a recognised professional organisation.

Support and Further Information

You may find the following organisations helpful:

  • Lymphoedema Support Network (LSN) – Information, advice and patient support.
  • Bristol and District Lymphoedema Patient Support Group – Local peer support and shared experiences.
  • Lipoedema UK – Information and support for people living with lipoedema.

These organisations can provide practical advice, educational resources and opportunities to connect with others living with similar conditions.

Your Individual Care Plan

Your healthcare professional may provide personalised advice based on your individual needs.

This could include:

  • Compression garment recommendations.
  • Skin care advice.
  • Exercise programmes.
  • Weight management goals.
  • Guidance on preventing cellulitis.
  • When to seek further medical advice.

Keep any personalised treatment plan in a safe place so you can refer to it when needed.

Further Information

If you have questions about managing your lymphoedema or feel your condition has changed, please contact your GP or the Lymphoedema Service.

Lymphoedema Service

Telephone: 01275 547573

Email: sirona.lymphoedemateam@nhs.net

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