5 Tips and Tricks to Manage Lymphedema
A lymphedema diagnosis can be hard to receive, but living with this condition is also a challenge. It’s certainly not an easy illness to live with, but it’s one you can manage. You can have a great quality of life with the proper routines and treatment, even with lymphedema. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you manage your lymphedema symptoms:
Speak with your doctor about your specific condition
When getting the diagnosis for lymphedema, you’re going to want to speak to your doctor about what kind of lower extremity lymphedema treatment is best for you. Depending on the stage that you’re in, they will have some advice on the best treatment option for you, emphasizing a decrease in swelling and avoiding the advancement of your condition.
Wear compression garments
Something that you may have to adapt to when being diagnosed with lymphoedema is wearing compression garments and bandages regularly. While this may be challenging for you, in reality, it can significantly help reduce swelling and decrease pain, making it more than worth it to invest in some stylish compression wear.
If your affected limb is in your lower extremities, then it’s a bit easier to hide your compression bandages—at least in the fall or winter when you can wear long pants. If your affected limb is one of your arms, this could be a little bit more challenging. However, there are some great options online that will add to your style even if you have to wear compression garments regularly.
Practice healthy habits
We should all practice healthy habits for better health. Healthy habits can make a huge difference in your quality of life and can help you avoid progressive swelling. Healthy habits include exercise on a daily basis and eating healthy and anti-inflammatory foods.
Keep in mind that with lymphedema, it may be best that you avoid high-intensity exercises, such as weight lifting, boxing, or running. However, things like walking or swimming are great ways to move your body, improve blood flow, and avoid fluid buildup. Whether you work with a personal trainer or join a local gym, weight management is crucial for those living with lymphedema.
Have great skincare practices
Infection is no friend of chronic swelling, and when you have swollen limbs, it’s very easy for you to swell by simple things like chapped skin or a small cut. This is why most people who have lymphedema practice top-notch skincare routines.
Besides keeping your skin clean with quality cleansers, it’s vital to keep your skin moisturized since dry skin can turn to chapped skin, leading to cuts and possible infections. It’s very important to avoid skin infections when you have lymphedema.
Consider surgery
There are various surgical procedures that can be done for those with lymphedema. Liposuction is one procedure that has been known to help those with this illness and reduce the volume of swelling and excess fat. If you are obese, and it’s impacting your swelling and making it difficult for you to practice everyday activities or exercise, your doctor may suggest bariatric surgery for weight loss.
While most people want to avoid taking the surgical route with lymphedema, it may be necessary to minimize swelling and help you get back to a healthier lifestyle if you have a more advanced version.
In Conclusion
The swelling and pain associated with lymphedema isn’t easy, but the tips and tricks above on managing symptoms can help you have a better quality of life. Consider finding a lymphedema support group so that you don’t face this diagnosis alone. Practice healthy habits and work with your healthcare provider to manage life with this condition.
