Am i able to work ?with lymphedema I work as a carer and always on my feet? And they ache? Would I qualify for disability or something?

[hez67]

[naominorthenellis]

Obviously it depends on the severity of your condition but there is no reason to stop work unless you are having real mobility issues or are of course in paid. are you getting the correct treatment and wearing compression? You should be advised by your GP

[Lruk]

Your best place to ask would be your local citizen's advice bureau but it is very unlikely that you would receive any disability benefit just because you have lymphoedema. You need to check with your GP that you are wearing the correct level of compression garments, however I would think that any job that involves you being on your feet all day would result in sore feet.

I am a specialist support teacher and on my feet for a great part of the day, often dashing form place to place and although my feet do sometimes ache it would certainly not be enough to justify me being off work, let alone claiming benefits. I am sorry if I appear harsh but your question doesn't really give enough detail for me to be able to suggest anything else that might help.

[pettitt61]

hi,gosh wish we could get some help with benefits,but I am afraid unless completely unable to walk,there are none as far as Lyphodema goes.In fact not much help at all I have primary Lyphodema in both feet and legs and still have to pay for MLD massage!! sorry .

[morganite]

its awful and unfiar, I was a registered nurse for 35yrs and couldn't continue my job, they couldn't accommodate times when I might have bandages on etc, and I couldn't do the 12hr shifts, even with compression my feet and legs were to painful by the end of a shift, I had all the assessments and couldn't get any benefits or financial help, they don't know enough about the affects of lymphedema and don't think it impacts on life. I had all the evidence from GP and clinic but to no avail , but you may have more luck, good luck.

[Hidden]

Hi

I have lympheodema in my left arm and worked as a Medical Secretary. I had to finish work in the end due to the fact I cannot do any lifting with that arm and also I get tired due to the aftermath of Chemotherapy, I also frequently forget things and get mixed up, they call this "Chemo Brain". However I applied for Disability Living Allowance and was turned down even when I went to Appeal! This was regardless to the fact that both my GP and my Consultant supported my appeal. The doctor and carers etc at the appeal said I was fit for work because I can use a computer.

Fortunately with my work pension which I was able to claim and my husband's money we have enough to live on but cannot afford to spend a lot of money on clothes etc, we go round second hand shops a lot.

Therefore with my experience of applying for disability I don't think the fact that your feet ache would qualify you for disability benefit with todays disability regulations. Have a go if your doctors support you and Good Luck.

[hez67 in reply to Hidden]

It absolutely awful the whole system is and my heart goes out to u. My leg feels like a lead Weight most days and I cnt hardly walk I'm going country and save up for a compression pump.