Managing Lymphoedema: Jack's Journey and the Power of Specialist Care
05 March 2025
From left: Peter Mac Senior Lymphoedema Physiotherapist Megan Howard and patient Jack.
For Peter Mac patient Jack, the journey through cancer treatment was tough, but one lingering challenge remained even after he was declared cancer-free—lymphoedema.
It’s a chronic condition that results in swelling due to an abnormal accumulation of protein-rich fluid beneath the skin.
It commonly occurs in cancer patients who have undergone surgery or radiotherapy that impacts the lymphatic system, reducing its ability to drain fluid efficiently. The condition can develop anywhere in the body, but it most often affects the arms, legs, and neck.
It was an unexpected hurdle for Jack following his treatment for squamous cell carcinoma in his throat and tongue. After chemotherapy and radiotherapy, he developed significant swelling due to lymph node damage.
"At first, I didn’t know what to do about it. The swelling was uncomfortable, and I was worried about how it would affect my daily life," Jack recalls.
"But with the right treatment and exercises, I’ve got it under control."
Jack’s swelling has significantly reduced under the guidance of Senior Lymphoedema Physiotherapist Megan Howard.
"Everybody produces lymph fluid—it’s a byproduct of cell function," Megan explains.
"It moves through lymph vessels and passes through lymph nodes, which filter waste before it eventually drains into the bloodstream. If the lymph nodes are damaged or removed, fluid can build up and cause swelling."
While lymphoedema can't always be completely cured, it can often be effectively managed.
Physiotherapist Megan using a device to measure body composition and fluid levels under the skin
Peter Mac’s lymphoedema service uses cutting-edge technology , using a special scanner to monitor fluid changes early—often before symptoms appear.
"By detecting changes in fluid levels early, we can intervene before the swelling becomes severe. Our management approach includes skincare, exercise, massage, and compression therapy," Megan says.
"Gravity plays a role, and with the right management, 90% of patients see improvement," Megan explains.
"But early intervention is key. If left untreated, lymphoedema can progress, causing long-term tissue changes."
"When we first met Jack, his upper neck circumference was 41.5cm. Now, it's down to 38.5cm. His lower neck has reduced from 39cm to 37.5cm, and his swelling from ear to ear has gone from 25.5cm to 22.5cm," Megan explains.
Jack’s improvements highlight the importance of early intervention and expert management.
"I do my lymphatic drainage exercises daily, and it makes all the difference," he says. "If you follow the advice and keep up the routine, it really works."
Lymphoedema is particularly common among patients treated for breast cancer, head and neck cancers, and those who have had lymph node removal in the groin.
Around 90% of patients who undergo head and neck cancer surgery experience some degree of lymphoedema.
Megan’s passion for lymphoedema care stems from her desire to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives.
"I’ve worked in cancer care for over 20 years, but lymphoedema treatment is particularly rewarding because you can see the improvement," she says. "It’s about empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to manage their condition effectively."
Jack is one of those patients who has taken the advice to heart. "You have to stay on top of it," he says. "The more you do, the better the results.”
With expert support, advanced technology, and commitment to self-management, lymphoedema doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle—it can be managed effectively, just like Jack’s.
March is Lymphoedema Awareness Month and March 6 is World Lymphoedema Day