Lymphedema - new support group: Let's connect

Posted by kit75 @kit75, Mar 23 7:24pm

I have been newly diagnosed with lymphedema, but not a result of breast cancer. When just searching the wider internet for lymphedema information, much of the information is related to breast cancer. When looking for help, they sometimes suggested elevating the limb. Or, they might suggest don't carry heavy items with the affected limb. My limb is my leg, hard to elevate, and need to carry my body weight daily with it :-/

I feel this support group would be beneficial since people that have had lymphedema would be able to offer suggestions on various treatments and suggestions to the newly diagnosed that we don't always get from our providers to deal with the swelling and/or pain. We have various treatments including manual lymphatic drainage and compression therapy. We also need to have specific exercises to treat the affected area. Then there is skin care and diet discussions. And we may need pneumatic compression pumps that may help with maintenance at home and/or dry brushing. Maybe discussions of surgical treatments.

Welcome to the new group created specifically for Lymphedema patients. What's your story? How are you managing lymphedema?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Lymphedema Support Group.

Profile picture for John, Volunteer Mentor @johnbishop

@zeppy I've been dealing with the lymphedema in my legs for a little over 6 years and it's pretty well controlled with compression socks once the initial swelling went down some. Another thing that I've found helps is to raise the foot of my bed slightly which helps the reduce swelling overnight. I have an adjustable bed now that makes it easy but before I just took a bulky blanket and folded it several times and then placed it under the mattress at the bottom of the bed. I haven't tried the lymphatic massage but I'm sure that would help a lot along with the exercises.

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@johnbishop
Thank you for the tip about the blanket under the mattress, I will try that.

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