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Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema - How to prevent?

​How to reduce the risk of Lymphoedema

You can reduce this risk with the following advice and precautions:

  • Keep the skin clean, supple and moisturised. Dry and wet areas thoroughly. You may need a hair dryer for difficult areas like the skin folds and between toes. Make sure that your underclothes are regularly washed.
  • Avoid any injuries to the leg, for example, cuts, bruises, insect bites and knocks.
  • Avoid sunburn by using protective clothing and a sunscreen (SPF 15 or more). Avoid exposure to extreme heat (including use of heat packs applied locally, sauna, steam rooms, hot and humid weather.
  • The leg must not be used for injection or acupuncture, drips or having blood samples taken.
  • Removal of hair from the leg should only be done using a well-maintained electric razor. Blade razors, creams and waxing increase the chance of cuts and redness of the skin.
  • If travelling by air, a compression garment must be worn. This also applies to long bus, train and car journeys.
  • Avoid tight clothing. No redness or indentation should be visible on removal of clothing.
  • Avoid constrictive jewellery. No redness or indentation should be visible on removal of jewellery.
  • Avoid prolonged standing and high heels. When you have to stand, walk in short bursts to increase lymph flow.
  • Avoid muscle fatigue during exercise and vigorous massage.

Lymphoedema - Causes and Risk Factors

Lymphoedema - Diagnosis

Lymphoedema - Preparing for surgery

Lymphoedema - Post-surgery care

Lymphoedema - Other Information

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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