7 Most Helpful Lymphedema Products & Recovery Tips
A majority of your body is composed of water, and most of this water is found inside your cells. Cells make up our internal organs, skin, and eyes, for instance, and water surrounds or is inside them.
Our bodies regulate the amount of water inside the cells, but the amount around them changes, and our lymphatic and vein systems work together to get rid of excess fluid. Lymphedema is the result of excess fluids building up when the lymphatic system isn’t working correctly, and it can result in painful and uncomfortable swelling of the arms, legs, fingers, or feet. It is common in breast cancer patients as an aftereffect of surgery or treatment.
For example, people who have many lymph nodes removed under the arm are at a higher risk of lymphedema for the rest of their lives. Radiation treatments can also scar and block the underarm lymph nodes, increasing the risk of lymphedema. You can get lymphedema right after surgery or radiation, or sometimes months and even years later.
Sadly, there is no cure, however, there are products to use and steps to take that can reduce and relieve symptoms of lymphedema. If you or someone you know suffers from lymphedema and are looking for products and recovery tips, keep reading as AnaOno has an entire guide on how to ease the pain of lymphedema.
Exercise
Talk to your doctor about exercises you can do to improve drainage, such as walking! Walking is one of the best and most gentle exercises you can partake in. Start slowly and gradually up your distance and pace when it is comfortable to do so. Talk to your doctor to discover other helpful exercises to improve drainage, including moving your affected limbs. Do not partake in any activity that is painful or puts too much strain on your affected areas.
Purchase Arm Sleeves from Lymphedivas - Celestial Arm Sleeve
Lymph fluid is encouraged to drain from your affected limb using arm sleeves or compression stockings, and luckily, Lymphedivas has many of the products that help reduce swelling and control pain, such as their Celestial Arm Sleeves.Select from many different style arm sleeves, all of which are $90 and available in three different sizes, different lengths, and with or without bands. Buy it now for $90
Wear Juzo Compression Socks
With compression socks, fluids are prevented from building up and reduce pressure that is created, Juzo has a wide variety of compression socks, from a simple athletic support sock to a comprehensive circulation remedy for the arm. These compression socks allow you to be more active and comfortable. Check out all of Juzo’s compression socks, here.
Drink Lots of Water
Staying hydrated when you have lymphedema helps your body maintain a healthy fluid and chemical balance.
Prevent Infection
Keep your skin dry and clean and avoid putting too much pressure on affected areas.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Additional weight can add pressure on lymph nodes and actually be the cause of lymphedema or make you more uncomfortable if you already have it. Be sure to eat healthy food that is low in sodium.
Try Massage Therapy
Manual lymph drainage can assist with moving lymph fluid out of your affected limbs. You can get these done by a professional or perform them at home. Find tips for lymphatic massages performed at home, here.
If you have blood clots or a skin infection, it is not recommended that you get a massage.
Can Compression Garments Make Lymphedema Worse?
When worn incorrectly, compression garments can do more harm than good. If the compression garments doesn’t fit correctly or is too tight, particularly around the limbs agitated by lymphedema, it can cause fluid backup to worsen. Be sure to get these fitted and approved by your doctor or other healthcare professional.
Is Heat or Ice Better for Lymphedema?
You should avoid extremely hot and cold temperatures, including heating pads and ice packs.
If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment immediately. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read on this blog, website or in any linked materials.
