Here are some tips that may help. For information about Lymphoedema or to find a Lymphoedema Therapist,
visit the website of the NZ Lymphoedema Therapists.
This information reproduced with the kind permission of the Lymphoedema Support Network from their 2011 Summer Newsletter.
Avoid high temperatures:
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hot baths/saunas, use gloves to wash up, use oven gloves, use SPF 30 sun block
Avoid cracked, dry skin:
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keep well moisturised and supple
Avoid constrictions:
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tight or high-heeled shoes
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tight belts
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tight or restrictive underwear/clothing
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heavy kneading massage
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constrictive jewellery
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do not cross your legs
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always measure blood pressure on the healthy arm
Avoid injuries:
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take care when cutting finger/toe nails – do so in good light when you have plenty of time
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wear shoes and gloves when doing housework or gardening
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avoid infections including blood sampling and acupuncture; wear pink medic alert bracelet if in hospital
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wear a thimble when sewing
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take care when handling animals
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watch out for insect bites
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use an electric razor instead of an ordinary razor, or waxing, to care for underarms and legs
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if diabetic, use unaffected limb for testing sugar levels
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take care when arranging flowers, especially roses
Avoid infections:
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treat cuts and scratches promptly, cleaning well and applying antiseptic cream
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dry well between fingers/toes after washing to prevent fungal infections
Do not carry shopping, luggage or other heavy objects with affected arm
Avoid any sudden strenuous movements, such as pushing or lifting heavy objects, using the arm at risk
If the leg is at risk, avoid standing still for long periods
Exercise:
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try to use the limb normally as muscle activity helps lymph drainage
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walking, cycling and swimming are especially effective
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seek professional advice if wishing to use weights in the gym
Long aircraft flights:
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always wear a compression sleeve/stocking
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exercise the limb at risk during travel
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drink plenty of water
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do 20 minutes exercise after landing
Checking for lymphoedema:
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undress to waist, raise arms above head and look I mirror for bra marks on skin, ensuring they are not more indented on one side than the other
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raise arms up, bending at elbow and holding forearms parallel in front of mirror. Check for uniformity from one arm to the other
Treatment may include one or more of the following:
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skin care
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exercise
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lymphatic drainage massage
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compression bandaging
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wearing special elasticised compression garment
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