People affected by the painful swelling condition, lymphoedema, are being invited to attend a national support day later this month.

Lymphoedema is a long-term swelling condition caused by a build-up of fluid in the body's tissues. This occurs when the lymphatic system, a key part of the immune system which normally drains fluid away, does not work properly. It can affect any part of the body.

Around 15,000 people in Ireland are currently living with the condition and on March 30, a national support day is due to take place in Dublin.

The event has been organised by Lymphoedema Ireland, a voluntary group that represents patients and their carers.

The support day will include the latest information on the condition and topics due to be covered include surgery, skin care and drainage.

Guest speakers will include lymphoedema therapist, Deirdre Cullivan, and consultant vascular physician, Dr Mary-Paula Colgan.

"Once developed, lymphoedema is a lifelong condition. The best model of care is for patients to have localised access to regular drainage, bandaging and compression garments. The condition can either occur genetically or following cancer treatment, particularly breast cancer," explained Lymphoedema Ireland chairperson, Bernie Traynor.

Lymphoedema Ireland highlighted the upcoming support day as part of World Lymphoedema Day (March 6). The event will take place in the Aisling Hotel in Dublin on Saturday, March 30, and anyone interested can register here.