Head & Neck Lymphoedema
Symptom Management
What is Head and Neck Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a condition where excess fluid accumulates in the tissues of the body causing swelling. Head and neck lymphoedema is swelling that occurs in the face or neck. It can occur in the external (or outside) tissues and be visible or can occur in the internal (inside) tissues where it is only visible with a medical scope.
Head and neck lymphoedema usually happens when there is damage or removal of parts of the lymphatic system. This may be due to procedures such as surgery and/or radiotherapy related to cancer treatment. However, not all people having cancer treatment will develop lymphoedema.
People with head and neck lymphoedema may experience feelings of tightness, heaviness and aching. They may have difficulty with neck movement, swallowing, speaking or completing everyday tasks. Some people experience challenges with their body image and changes with socialising.
Head and neck lymphoedema can be improved with the right management. How severe the lymphoedema is, as well as your individual circumstances, will determine your best symptom management. If you have signs of head and neck lymphoedema please speak with your medical team about referral to a lymphoedema therapist.
Resources
For information on head and neck lymphoedema:
Head and Neck Cancer Australia Head and neck lymphoedema webinar
For general information about lymphoedema:
Australasian Lymphology Association
Please consult your lymphoedema therapist before performing any head and neck lymphoedema treatments.
The following videos have been produced to educate patients and health professionals about how to manage and minimise lymphoedema symptoms associated with head and neck cancer treatment.
The texture of your skin can change when you have lymphoedema. This video provides information about how to care for your skin when you have head and neck lymphoedema.
Sleeping position can affect your head and neck lymphoedema. This video provides information about the recommended sleeping positions.
Your daytime posture can affect your head and neck lymphoedema. This video provides information about recommended postures.
Exercise is important for general health, and it can also help with head and neck lymphoedema. This video provides information about whole body exercise.
There are specific exercises you can do to assist your head and neck lymphoedema. This video contains information about head and neck lymphoedema exercise routines.
Compression garments can be used to assist with head and neck lymphoedema management. This video provides information about the garments and how they are used.
Certain types of massage can help with head and neck lymphoedema. This video provides general information about how and why massage is used.
This video provides information about the process and sequence of performing head and neck lymphoedema massage.
Scars can interfere with the flow of lymph fluid. This video describes techniques for scar management which can reduce their impact on head and neck lymphoedema massage is used.
Lymphoedema tape can assist with reducing head and neck lymphoedema. This video describes how tape is applied and removed.
Conditions can arise with lymphoedema that require immediate medical care. This video discusses the signs of cellulitis and what steps to take should it occur.
Page last reviewed October 2024