Lymphedema
Lymphedema is a chronic, persistent condition. Left untreated, lymphedema usually worsens over time, resulting in conditions that decrease skin integrity, interfere with wound healing, and increase the potential for infection. The limb becomes more swollen (edematous) and the skin hardens and loses elasticity (fibrosis). More importantly, untreated lymphedema can lead to infection and sometimes, irreversible complications.
With early intervention and proper treatment, lymphedema can be controlled and its symptoms reduced allowing you to lead a full and normal life. Self-management contributes significantly to a reduction in swelling and the control of other side effects, and is absolutely necessary for long-term control.
Diet and Nutrition
- Maintain ideal weight through a well-balanced, low-sodium, high-fiber diet.
- Drink plenty of water, 8-10 glasses per day is recommended.
- Avoid processed and fatty foods. Obesity aggravates lymphedema.
- Do not smoke.
- Avoid alcohol.
- Avoid foods containing MSG (mainly in Chinese and Thai foods).
General Skin Care Recommendations
- Examine arm/leg daily for cuts, bites, burns. (Sources of infection.)
- Treat skin lesions, i.e.: cleanse, antibiotic cream, sterile dressing.
- Watch for signs of infection, i.e.: redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, red streaks. Notify your physician at first sign of infection.
- Wash cuts, scrapes and insect bites immediately with antibacterial soap and water. Cover with sterile dressing and antibiotic cream. Watch for infection.
- Practice good hygiene. Keep arms/legs clean. Wash regularly with mild, ph balanced, unscented soap.
- After washing, dry gently but thoroughly, especially between fingers and toes.
- Use a mild, unscented lotion after bathing. (LYMPHODERM.)
- Wash your elastic compression sleeves/stockings and stockinet for compression bandaging daily.
- Use an electric razor to remove hair on affected areas to minimize risk of nicks and scratches.
- Use mild detergents when washing clothes to avoid skin reactions.
Hand and Arm Care
- No blood drawing from affected arm.
- No blood pressure checks on affected arm.
- No injections on affected arm.
- Keep cuticles moist with cream.
- Do not cut, bite or pull cuticles. Push back with orange stick. Watch for hangnails, or torn cuticles.
- Use unscented, hypoallergenic, non-metallic deodorant.
- Avoid constricting jewelry and watches. Wear on unaffected side if possible.
- Avoid clothing with constricting elastic cuffs.
- Bras and clothing should not bind at the underarm, chest or waist.
- Use shoulder protectors to alleviate pressure on shoulders from the bra straps.
- If wearing a prosthesis, use a good support bra and avoid using older, heavier forms.
- Carry suitcases, purses and heavy packages like groceries, with unaffected arm.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects, i.e.: over 10-15 pounds.
- Use a thimble when sewing.
Foot Care
- Trim toenails every two months after softening them by soaking in tepid water for 10 minutes. Nails that are thick, excessively curved or ingrown, discolored or falling off require professional care.
- After trimming, apply antiseptic ointment to nail borders.
- Apply moisturizing cream after bathing, avoiding toes.
- Use absorbent powder between toes to absorb perspiration.
- Wear clean socks, hosiery and compression garments each day.
- Avoid over-the-counter medications for corns and calluses. (They can burn the skin.)
- Do not cut corns or calluses yourself.
- Avoid open toed shoes and sandals.
- Never walk with bare feet.
- Shoes should provide support and protection. They should not be constricting. Avoid high heels.
- Do not wear rolled up stockings.
General Precautions
Environmental Precautions
- Avoid extreme temperature changes when bathing, washing dishes etc...
- Use sunscreen of 15 SPF or greater, or cover the affected limb with clothing whenever you are in the sun.
- Use insect repellent to avoid bites and stings.
- When flying, or for lengthy car rides, wear your compression sleeve/stocking, or compression wrap. Avoid sodium, drink water and walk around frequently.
- When gardening, wear long sleeves and protective gloves (the gloves designed for roses are the best).
Recreational and Job Precautions
- Exercise moderately. Start new exercise programs slowly and increase activity gradually to avoid muscle strain. Always discuss any sports activity with your physician and monitor limb size carefully.
- Warm up and cool down adequately with any exercise program.
- Swimming, walking, bicycling and low impact aerobics are recommended activities.
- Avoid fatigue, injury and overheating. Drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated, and try to exercise in an air-conditioned environment.
- Avoid deep tissue massage, Shiatsu, acupuncture, Rolfing.
- Avoid jobs and sports requiring repetitive and/or vigorous movements against resistance, i.e.: knitting, crocheting, rowing, sawing, weight lifting, etc...
- Activities involving sudden, forceful strokes may cause an increase in swelling for some people, i.e.: tennis, golf, racquetball, handball, etc... Check with your physician before participating in such activities.
- Avoid contact sports, i.e.: football, hockey, rugby.
- Hot tubs, saunas and steam baths over 90 ° are not recommended.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects, i.e.: over 10-15 pounds.
Household Precautions
- Wear rubber gloves while washing dishes and performing other household chores to protect hands and arms from excessive heat, detergent and chemicals.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive compounds.
- Use long, padded oven mitts to avoid burns while cooking or baking. (Watch out for steam.)
- Use a thimble when sewing.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects, i.e.: over 10-15 pounds.
- Avoid pet scratches and bites.
- Avoid vigorous, repetitive movements against resistance with the affected arm, i.e.: rubbing, scrubbing, pushing, vacuuming, shoveling, raking, etc...
Please Note: These guidelines are provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please discuss all precautions and treatments with your doctor.
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