You may be at risk of lymphoedema if you:
- had treatment for cancer
- live with obesity
- have circulation problems
- are not active
It's not possible to completely prevent lymphoedema. But the following advice may help reduce your chances of developing it.
If you already have lymphoedema, this advice may stop it from getting worse.
Skin care
You are more at risk of infection if you have lymphoedema.
Skin infections can also cause lymphoedema.
To reduce your risk of skin damage or developing skin infections:
Do
-
treat cuts and scratches immediately with an antiseptic cream
-
use insect repellents to prevent insect bites
-
moisturise your skin daily - you can get a cream at your pharmacy
-
use sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF)
-
use an electric razor if you need to shave
-
wear loose-fitting clothes
-
wear gloves for gardening and household tasks
-
cut your nails with clippers rather than tearing or biting your nails
-
wear shoes that fit and have support on the top of your feet rather than open shoes
-
use anti-fungal powder on your feet
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see a chiropodist for foot and nail care - tell them that you have lymphoedema
-
avoid very hot baths or showers - heat from saunas, steam rooms and sun beds may also increase the swelling
-
tell healthcare workers you are at risk of lymphoedema if you need an injection or blood pressure reading - they may be able to avoid the affected area
Don't
-
do not wear tight-fitting jewellery
Non-urgent advice: Contact your GP as soon as possible if
you develop symptoms of a skin infection such as:
- redness - this may appear dark brown or purple on black or brown skin
- a high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above, or feeling unwell
- your skin feeling hot or painful
Caring for scars after cancer surgery
Scars are normal after surgery but they can become tight and uncomfortable.
To care for a scar:
- do gentle stretches and movement to help it feel less tight
- do gentle massage after the scar is fully healed - this is normally 4 to 6 weeks after your surgery
- use moisturisers on the scar to help soften the area - use this after a massage and not during a massage
Ask your doctor for a referral to a physiotherapist if your scar causes pain or limits your movement.
Healthy lifestyle
Healthy changes may reduce your risk of developing lymphoedema or control the condition.
To look after your health:
- eat a healthy, balanced diet
- do regular physical activity
- maintain a healthy weight
Body mass index (BMI) calculator - safefood.net
Healthy diet
There is no special diet to control lymphoedema.
But it can help to:
- eat a well-balanced diet that includes vegetables and fruit
- lower your intake of salt - salt makes your body retain fluid and this can increase your swelling
Being active
Being active is essential for your lymphatic system. When you work your muscles, it increases the flow of lymph fluid away from any swollen areas.
Be as active as you can. Aim for 30 minutes of activity 5 to 7 days a week.
Try to introduce deep breathing into your daily routine. This improves circulation and gets your lymph fluid flowing.
Physical activity after cancer treatment
After treatment for cancer, check with your GP before you start becoming more active. Increase your activity levels slowly.
Cancer treatment and physical activity
Lymphoedema and travel
Some people have swelling of the arm or leg after air travel and long trips in a car, bus or train.
The combination of low cabin pressure and inactivity can trigger lymphoedema during air travel.
But any long trip can involve long periods of inactivity. This may reduce lymphatic flow and cause your arm or leg to swell.
Extra activities or changes to your routine because of travel can trigger lymphoedema, such as:
- cleaning your house before the trip
- vacuuming or ironing
- carrying heavy luggage or too many bags
- stopping exercise routines when you are on holiday
Reducing your risk of lymphoedema when you travel
If you are at high risk of lymphoedema, talk to your GP or therapist before you take a flight that lasts longer than 4 hours. They may recommend compression garments.
To reduce the risk of lymphoedema:
Do
-
clean the house over several days or ask for help if you can
-
consider using luggage with wheels
-
avoid using the side where you had surgery to carry shoulder bags
-
exercise your arms and legs during the trip - for example, squeeze a soft ball, do knee lifts, or flex and extend your feet
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stand and walk every couple of hours if you can - this is good for your back and lymphatic flow
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wear loose-fitting clothes
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stay well hydrated and avoid alcohol and drinks with caffeine
-
gently squeeze the steering wheel and move your arms when you drive
Getting support
Talk to your GP, public health nurse (PHN) or physiotherapist about support for lymphoedema. They can refer you to a lymphoedema therapist.
Content supplied by the NHS and adapted for Ireland by the HSE
