Lymphedema: The 18 Steps of Prevention - Courtesy of NLN

The National Lymphedema Network has worked diligently for the past 10 years to educate the public and medical community about the perils of lymphedema. Here, courtesy of their web site http://www.lymphnet.org are the 18 precautionary steps for those who may be at risk for lymphedema and as preventive measures for those patients who have lymphedema.

1) Never ignore swelling in the arm, hand, fingers, chest wall, foot, toes, ankles, leg, abdomen or genitals - Consult a doctor immediately. 2) Never allow an injection or blood drawing in the affected limb(s). Wear a Lymphedema Alert bracelet, necklace or some type of warning symbol. 3) Have blood pressure checked on the unaffected arm, or leg if both arms are at risk. 4) Keep the limb spotlessly clean. Use lotion after bathing and dry gently. Make sure to dry any creases. 5) Avoid vigorous, repetitive motion. 6) Avoid heavy lifting. Never carry heavy items on affected side. 7) Do not wear tight jewelry or any socks, stockings, clothing with tight elastic bands. 8) Avoid extreme temperature changes when bathing or sunbathing. Use sunscreen. 9) Try to avoid any traums (bruises, cuts, sunburns, insect bites, cat scratches) on the affected area. Check for signs of infection. 10) Wear gloves when doing housework, gardening or any activity which may result in minor injury. 11) When manicuring, avoid cutting cuticles. Notify your manicurist. (Applies to pedicures also) 12) Exercise, but do not lift more than 15 lbs. Don't overtire the limb at risk. If it aches, lie down and elevate it. Consult with your therapist before beginning any new exercise regime. 13) When travelling by air, wear a well-fitting compression garment. Additional bandages might be required for long flights. Increase fluid intake while in the air. 14) Patients with upper limb edema should wear light-weight breast prostheses. Soft padded shoulder straps are advisable. Choose a well-fitted bra, preferably with no underwires. 15) Use an well-maintained electric razor. 16) Patients with lymphedema should wear a well-fitted compression garment during waking hours. Follow up with your therapist every 4-6 months. If the garment becomes too loose, it loses its therapeutic value. 17) If you notice a rash, itching, redness, pain, temperature increase or fever, see your doctor immediately. Inflammation or infection in the affected area can worsen lymphedema. 18) Maintain your ideal weight and eat a well-balanced, low sodium, high-fiber diet. Avoid smoking and alcohol. Even though lymphedema is a high protein edema, eating too little protein may weaken the connective tissue and worsen the condition. The diet should contain easily digested protein such as chicken, fish or tofu.

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