I didn't know there was secondary lympho. Is there first and third. What does it mean? Sorry about font.

[warren20]

Do other people find it difficult to get quick service from GPs? I suspect heart trouble at 81. Is it necessary to have an ECG? I need my mind set at rest but one has to push for everything. I told the GP that an osteopath had said my heart seemed unsteady but he said I was okay, but I think I should have an ECG. If the heart were not functioning properly, could the circulation be affected? How can one find out the source of the lympho trouble? I will keep reading up on everything . I use an electronic foot stimulator every few days. It doesn't seem to improve anything much? Any ideas/comments? Thank you.

[Lynora]

There are two forms of lymphoedema - Primary and Secondary. Primary usually develops as a result of a lymphatic abnormality somewhere in the system - most often, in a lower limb, although in some rare instances it can develop in an arm. It rarely happens in both limbs. Secondary lymphoedema develops more often due to some form of trauma - either surgery (such as in cancer related lymphoedema) or injury. Lymphoedema can also be caused by radiotherapy.

An ECG can be done by the GP surgery, and takes a few minutes. Some practices may recommend a 24 hour heart test, involving being linked to a little hand-held device from wires attached to your chest. Yes, the circulation can be affected if the heart is not fully functioning, and there is also a form of lower leg swelling that can be caused by Venous Insufficiency - many older people develop this as they become less active and more sedentary. Compression garments can help with this, so long as they are not too difficult for people to put on!!!

[warren20 in reply to Lynora]

My GP has not done any ECG test and certainly didn't volunteer it, but I will ask that this be done. I am old but like to know the source and cause of illness, and if it just the body wearing down as it gets old. Thank you very much for giving this information to me.