Embarrassing Illnesses

Skin care

The part of your body that is affected by lymphoedema will be more vulnerable to infection as it will not be receiving a regular supply of infection-fighting lymphocytes.

So any cuts in your skin can allow bacteria to enter your body and may quickly develop into an infection. You can avoid this by:

• not having injections or blood pressure readings in the affected area,
• treating cuts and scratches immediately with an antiseptic cream so that they do not become infected,
• using insect repellents to prevent insect bites,
• moisturising the skin daily to keep it supple (your GP may prescribe a suitable cream for this),
• avoiding very hot baths and showers (the heat from saunas, stream rooms and sun beds may also increase the swelling),
• using a high factor suncream to prevent sunburn,
• wearing gloves for gardening and household tasks to avoid cuts,
• cutting your nails with nail clippers and using hand cream regularly,
• using anti-fungal powder to prevent athlete's foot,
• seeing a chiropodist for foot and nail care (inform them that you have lymphoedema),
• wearing shoes that fit correctly and provide support at the top of your feet,
• use an electric razor if you need to shave as this will reduce the chance of you cutting yourself,
• not wearing tight fitting clothes or jewellery.

Diet and lifestyle

Following a healthy diet is also important in controlling lymphoedema. If you are overweight, more strain is put on areas of the body that are already swollen.

This can make it more difficult to fit compression garments over the affected limbs. Some people also find that alcohol and spicy food cause an increase in swelling.

Some people with lymphoedema have reported that air travel makes their symptoms worse.