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← Return to Lymphedema and now Cellulitis
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I have primary lymphedema in both legs (knees down) and have been fighting recurrent cellulitis infections in my left leg since December 2024. Hospitalized 6 times since December for IV antibiotics, with one stay ending with a PICC line for antibiotics at home for another 10 days after being discharged. I am currently fighting another infection (antibiotic shots and oral antibiotics). I wear compression garments each day, keep my leg elevated as much as possible through the day while at work, and use a compression pump each night from waist down. All I’ve been told is that I need to lose weight, use compression, elevate, exercise, and the infections wouldn’t be as frequent. I am overweight and through changing my diet and walking more, I have lost 20 lbs since February but that can’t be the only reason this keep coming back. Anyone else been through anything similar?
Replies to "I have primary lymphedema in both legs (knees down) and have been fighting recurrent cellulitis infections..."
This is exactly what I'm going through. I'm too far gone for lymphedema treatment. I need surgery. Cellulitis keeps coming back, antibiotics do not work even with mild case. I'm currently in Urgent care & told there is nothing they can do for me. I'm on several prescription medications . I'm seeing a vascular surgeon. I refuse to just go home and live with the pain because there's nothing can be done for me.
I’m so sorry you’re going through this as well. I pray you find relief from the pain and infections.
I have been diagnosed with Chronic Venous Insufficiency by a vascular surgeon in 2018 after two horrendous bouts of cellulitis and huge venous ulcers that took over 8 weeks to heal. I had five separate procedures on both legs to seal damaged and collapsed veins and I wear medical grade compression stockings every day. Thankfully I have not had a recurrence but I have stepped up my walking routine and that has helped also. Exercise is really critical to keep good circulation in your lower extremities. Physical therapy can also help you develop a good exercise plan that fits your current abilities. Good luck and best wishes for healing. I know how miserable it can be.
Welcome, @ellemc2252. I moved your post to this existing discussion:
- Lymphedema and now Cellulitis https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/lymphedemacellulitis/
I did this so you can read previous posts and connect with members like @rosy33 @cindylb @johnbishop and others.
You might also be interested in this related discussion:
- Lymphedema in legs https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/lymphedema-in-legs/
Have they managed to get the infection under control? Sepsis is tough.
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I have met several people with primary lymphedema through a zoom group sponsored by Cancer Lifeline. I do not know if Mayo has a similar support group. You may learn how others deal with their cellulitis episodes