What can i do if i have lymphedema?

Therapy: There is physical therapy directed to improve this and also sleeves you can wear find a lymphedem clinic in your area. www.drlugo.com.

Lymphatic Pump: If it is bad enough, you can rent or even buy a machine called lympha press that helps squeeze the edema down. It can be expensive but some insurances will cover it. Working with a physical and occupational therapist is very helpful also. There is surgery that tries to remove the lymphatic tissue, but is offered in the most severe cases - generally not recommended.

Decongestion: The mainstay is decongestive therapy. This includes wearing elastic compression stockings, using non-elastic circ-aid garments, sequential compression devices, lymphatic drainage/massage, diet and exercise. Going to a lymphedema clinic is helpful if you have one close. A great source of info is www.Lymphnet.Org.

Reduce Swelling: Lymphedema is due to increased back pressure in either the lymphatic or venous systems or a combination of both. It can occur in any extremity and most commonly in the legs. The goal of treatment is to reduce the pressure by several modalities-elevation, compression stockings or bandages, lymphedema massage and sequential segmental pumps. Unfortunately, lymphedema is a chronic condition.

Lymphedems: Compression stockings is the first line of treatment,placing them on legs prior to daily activity