Lymphoedema is a long-term condition that usually affects the arms and legs, causing swelling in the tissues.

According to the Better Health Channel, around 300,000 Australians are living with lymphoedema at any one time.

We take a look at lymphoedema, its symptoms and causes, and offer lymphoedema management tips to make everyday life more enjoyable.

What are the symptoms of lymphoedema?

Let’s start by looking at lymphoedema symptoms:

  • Swelling, also known as oedema, which usually occurs in an arm or leg
  • An aching or heavy feeling in the area
  • Skin that feels hot or tight
  • Pins and needles
  • Sore joints

What causes lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system, which drains away surplus fluid and helps the body fight infection, is not working properly.

You may suffer from primary lymphoedema when there is a genetic cause for your lymphatic system not functioning as it should.

Or you may be affected by the more common secondary lymphoedema, which is caused by damage to the system. This could be as a result of trauma, lack of movement in the area or surgery to remove lymph nodes or radiotherapy as part of cancer treatment.

What is the treatment for lymphoedema?

While there is no cure for the condition, lymphoedema management offers several choices:

  • Compression garments put pressure on the affected area, helping release and drain trapped fluid. You usually need to wear your garments all day and take them off at night.
  • Compression bandaging is carried out by a specially trained healthcare professional and works on the same principles.
  • In lymphoedema massage, lymph fluid is moved away from your affected area, reducing swelling.
  • Your healthcare professional may show you special exercises to do that help to stimulate the lymphatic system.
  • Your doctor may prescribe medication to manage your lymphoedema.

What about complications?

It’s important to know about complications associated with lymphoedema.

There is a close connection between lymphoedema and cellulitis, which is a bacterial infection of the layer of tissue below the surface of the skin.

If you have symptoms like hot red skin and a fever, you should consult a doctor. They can prescribe you antibiotics to help you get better.

Other complications include fluid breaking through the skin or causing blisters and thick, coarse skin.

Very rarely, people with chronic lymphoedema may develop a type of soft tissue cancer called lymphangiosarcoma.

What else can I do to manage lymphoedema?

If you are living with lymphoedema, there are steps you can take to manage your condition.

Practise a good skincare routine

Take good care of your skin in the affected area to avoid the risk of infection.

  • Keep your skin clean and dry whenever possible.
  • Use sun cream and insect repellent if you are going outside.
  • Avoid injuries to the affected area.

If lymphoedema affects one of your arms:

  • Wear gloves for household chores, cooking and gardening.
  • Ensure that any blood pressure tests, injections or blood tests are administered to your unaffected arm.

If it affects your lower limbs:

  • Don’t cross your legs when sitting down.
  • Keep your feet clean and dry.
  • Don’t walk around barefoot.

Follow a healthy diet

Because obesity is a risk factor for lymphoedema, you should take care to follow a healthy diet.

  • Limit the amount of fat and sugar in your diet.
  • Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.
  • Avoid food that is high in salt.
  • Consume alcohol in moderation.

Don’t forget to exercise

Exercise should be part of your routine to help you stay within a healthy weight.

It’s also beneficial to move the area affected by lymphoedema. It can help stimulate the lymphatic system and reduce swelling.

Before you start any new activities, you should consult your healthcare professional. They will be able to advise you about special exercises to help your lymphoedema.

Wear a medical ID bracelet

Wearing a medical ID alert is another way to help you feel safe and confident while you are living with lymphoedema.

Any blood pressure checks or IV needles should be applied to the arm that is not affected by lymphoedema. In a medical emergency, you may not be able to communicate this to your caregiver. That’s why wearing a medical ID alert is a simple step you can take to prevent this from happening.

You can choose a lymphoedema wristband to alert your caregiver to your condition so that they can make safe decisions in the event of an emergency.

Soft yet strong and long-lasting too, our silicone wristbands are a great choice for anyone with lymphoedema.

Or you could opt for a stainless steel necklace inscribed with information about your lymphoedema status.

Shop medical wristbands Australia

You can find the perfect medical wristband to help you manage your lymphoedema in our extensive range.

We supply quality medical wristbands to customers throughout Australia in a variety of colours and sizes.

Wear a medical ID bracelet to give you that extra confidence to simply live your best and healthiest life!