6 tips to prevent Lymphoedema

If you’re anything like the rest of us, you probably wonder about certain conditions – you may wonder about your risk factors, causes, symptoms, treatments, and even possible preventions. Because we understand that humans are curious by nature, we’ve taken the time to put together some information on a condition known as lymphoedemas, such as its cause, symptoms, and possible prevention.

Knowing and understanding what lymphoedema is and how to prevent it will make all the difference in tackling it head-on, including learning how to avoid it. So, what is lymphoedema, and how does one prevent the condition? Why don’t you grab a cuppa and sit as we spill the ‘tea.’

What Is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema relates to swollen tissue typically caused by a build-up of protein-rich fluid generally drained by the body’s lymphatic system. Lymphoedema commonly affects the legs or arms and has also been known to affect the neck, chest wall, and abdomen.

Severe cases of the condition can affect the limb’s mobility, increase the risk of skin infection, and may even lead to skin changes and breakdown. Symptoms include arm and leg swelling, including fingers and toes, restricted mobility in the affected limb, and recurring infections, to name a few.

Treatments for lymphoedema include compression socks, graduated compression, massage therapy, sequential pneumatic pumping, and a skincare routine.

With all the above said, here are six tips to prevent lymphoedema.

Six Tips To Prevent The Condition

1. You can prevent lymphoedema by protecting your skin and avoiding nicks, bites, cuts, and other injuries on the affected area.
2. Tight clothing is a no-no as it constricts your forearms, arms, and wrists. Avoid tight clothing as a preventative measure for lymphoedema.
3. Keeping your skin moisturised and clean prevents chafing and chapping.
4. Maintain a healthy diet and body weight and keep physically active.
5. Wear compression garments such as graduated compression from our Silver Wave line, available online at Solidea.
6. Avoiding extreme temperatures is essential to prevent lymphoedema. Dress appropriately when it’s cold out, as freezing weather can cause swelling and chaffing of the skin; extreme heat, such as saunas, should also be avoided.

Knowing how to prevent lymphoedema is different from applying knowledge. With these six easy tips on preventing it, you can start implementing it today!

At Solidea South Africa, we have a wide range of compression to suit your compression wear needs. Visit us online and check out our different compression socks and stockings fields today.

Until next time, keep that chin up, that smile on, and those limbs healthy!