DO’s and DON’Ts
Living with Lymphoedema, there are things you can do and avoid to help keep yourself as well as you can be…
Do …
• keep your skin well moisturised
• treat any cuts/grazes quickly with antiseptic and or a dressing
• use insect repellents to prevent insect bites
• use factor 15 or higher on swollen skin in hot weather
• use an electric razor if shaving
• wear rubber gloves for household chores
• wear gardening gloves when gardening
• make sure all swollen areas are covered with compression garments
• wear compression all day ( except if you have cellulitis)
• wear compression garments when exercising
• make sure there are no creases or wrinkles in your compression garments
• make sure your compression fits properly and get it renewed regularly
• wash garments at 30degrees, do not tumble dry or dry on a radiator
• watch out for signs of cellulitis and get it treated quickly
• when travelling get up for short walks if on a train or aeroplane
• if travelling by car take frequent stops
• when travelling do simple exercises – shoulders/fingers/feet
• when travelling drink plenty of water
• wearing a second compression garment can be useful during a long flight
• deep breathing exercises are helpful for improving lymph drainage
• use Simple Lymphatic drainage (SLD self massage) this helps lymph move out of the swollen areas – get your therapist to show you how to do it. Videos/DVDs are available from the LSN ( see Links page)
Don’t ..
• take hot baths and saunas
• walk around barefoot
• take excessive exercise – build up slowly so you know your limits
• wear high heeled shoes
• wear tight shoes
• wear tight jewellery
• wear underwear with narrow or tight bands or straps
• wear elasticated cuffs on sleeves or socks
• have injections or blood pressure taken on affected areas