Healthy Habits for Patients at Risk for Lymphedema

Healthy Lifestyle:
 A healthy diet and exercise are important for overall good health.
 
  • Maintain optimal weight through a healthy diet and exercise to significantly lower risk of lymphedema
  • Gradually build up the duration and intensity of any activity of exercise. Review the Exercise Position paper.* 
  • Take frequent rest periods during activity to allow for recovery.
  • Monitor the at-risk area during and after activity for change in size, shape, tissue, texture, soreness, heaviness, or firmness.
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    Skin Care:

     make sure that your skin is in good condition
  • Keep your at-risk body part clean and dry.
  • Apply moisturizer daily to prevent chapping/chafing of skin.
  • Pay attention to nail care and do not cut cuticles.
  • Protect exposed skin with sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Use care with razors to avoid nicks and skin irritation.
    		•
    Medical Check-Ups:Find a certified lymphedema therapist (CTL)*
  • Review your individual situation, get screened for lymphedema, and discuss risk factors with your CLT.
  • Ask your CLT or healthcare professional if compression garments for air travel and strenuous activity are appropriate for you.
  • If a compression garment is recommended, make sure it is properly fitted and you understand the wear, care and replacement guildlines.
  • Set up a follow-up schedule based on your needs with your CLT.
  • Report any changes in your at-risk body part to your CLT.
    		•
    Infection Education: Know the signs of infection and what to do if you suspect you have one.
    • Signs of infection: rash, itching, redness, pain, increased skin temperature, increased swelling, fever, or flu-like symptoms.
    • If any of these symptoms occur, contact your healthcare professional immediately for early treatment of possible infection.
    • If a scratch or puncture to your skin occurs, wash it with soap and water, apply topical antibiotics, and observe for signs of infection.
    • Keep a small first aid kit with you when traveling.



       Try to Avoid Possible Triggers

       

      Injury or Trauma

      • Wear gloves while doing activities that may cause skin injury (washing dishes, gardening, using chemicals like detergent).
      • Try to avoid punctures (eg, injections and blood draws).

      Limb Constriction

      • Wear loose jewelry and clothing.
      • Avoid carrying a heavy bag or purse over the at-risk limb
      • Try to avoid blood pressure cuffs on the at-risk limb.

       Extreme Tempuratures

      • Avoid exposure to extreme cold, which can cause rebound swelling or chapping of skin.
      • Avoid prolonged (>15 min.) exposure to heat, particularly hot tubs and saunas. 

       Prolonged Inactivity

      At-risk for leg lymphedema?
      • Avoid prolonged standing or sitting by moving and changing position throughout the day.
      • Wear properly, fitted footwear and hosiery.
      Please note: These guidelines are meant to help reduce your risk of developing lymphedema and are NOT prevention guidelines. Because there is little research about risk reduction, many of these use a common-sense approach based on the body's anatomy and knowledge gained from decades of clinical experience by experts in the field. Risk reduction should always be individualized by a certified lymphedema therapist and healthcare professional.
      For a full list of the NLN's risk reduction practices, please see our website: www.lymphnet.org/riskreduction
      * To review the NLN's other position papers and find a CLT in your area: www.lymphnet.org
      (2016, Spring). Healthy Habits for Patients at Risk for Lymphedema. Canada's Lymphedema Magazine Pathways, (Spring 2016), pp. 13
      — Phyllis Keith
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