LYMPHEDEMA: PREVENTION AND TREATMENT
WHAT IS IT?
• Lymphedema is an abnormal swelling of a body part, such as an arm or leg.
• Many times this can be treated or controlled.
• Lymphedema may cause a feeling of heaviness, difference in appearance, and mild discomfort and can make you more susceptible to an infection in that affected area.
• Lymphedema can interfere with wound healing and can cause a chronic inflammatory condition.
WHY DOES IT OCCUR?
• Some types can have no apparent cause, but many types of lymphedema are caused by the surgical removal of lymph nodes.
• It can also be caused by an injury, chronic infection of the lymph system, or by a parasite.
• It can occur right after surgery for the removal of lymph nodes, within a few months, a couple of years, or even 20 years after the surgery.
HOW CAN I PREVENT IT?
• Avoid hot tubs, saunas, sunburn, insect bites, pet/animal bites, heavy lifting, obesity, needle sticks, or blood pressure cuffs on the affected limb.
• Do not ignore any slight increase of swelling in your body. If this occurs, talk with your health care provider.
• Keep the “at-risk” limb very clean. Be sure to gently dry well.
• Don’t carry heavy handbags or bags with over the shoulder straps.
• Don’t wear tight jewelry or elastic bands around affected fingers or arms.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes when bathing or washing dishes.
• Wear gloves while doing housework, gardening, or any type of work that could result in even a minor injury.
• When manicuring your nails, avoid cutting your cuticles.
• Exercise is important, but do not overtire an arm at risk. If it starts to ache, lie down and elevate it (higher than your heart). Ideal exercises are walking, swimming, light aerobics, bike riding, and yoga. Do not lift more than 15 pounds.
• When traveling by air, wear a compression sleeve. Increase fluid intake while in the air.
• Wear a well-fitted bra: not too tight and with no wire support. Avoid heavy breast prostheses.
• Maintain your ideal weight with a well-balanced, low-sodium, high-fiber diet. Avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages.
• Use an insect repellent when outdoors. An insect bite may develop into cellulitis (infection of the skin).
• If you have lymphedema of the leg, use proper footwear, and avoid high-heeled or tight-fitting shoes. Never walk barefoot. Take extra precaution with foot care.
• Throughout the day, elevate the affected limb. Elevate it all night. Legs should be elevated higher than your hips; arms should be elevated higher than your heart.
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