While there's no cure for lymphedema, making small changes in how you go about your day may help reduce swelling and other symptoms. Small changes to consider include protecting against infection, getting exercise and making small changes in your diet.
There's no cure for lymphedema. Treatment focuses on reducing the swelling and preventing complications.
Early-stage lymphedema can be treated with nonsurgical interventions, including medication, a healthy diet and manual compression. For advanced-stage lymphedema, surgical intervention may be recommended.
Based on the research, bestatin (also known as ubenimex), is being tested in a clinical trial that started in May 2016 — known as ULTRA — as a treatment for secondary lymphedema, which occurs because of damage to the lymphatic system from surgery, radiation therapy, trauma or infection.
Avoid trauma or injury to the affected area. Avoid heavy lifting with the affected arm. No new tattoos in the affected area. Do not wear tight clothing, bands, shoes, or jewelry on the affected area.
A few supplements have been tested for lymphedema treatment. Among them, GARLIVE® containing hydroxytyrosol, hesperidin, spermidine and vitamin A, exhibited promising effects in the animal model.
Apple cider vinegar's potassium content helps to break up mucus in the body and clearing the lymph nodes. This also aids in the removal of toxins.
Stay Hydrated
The lymphatic system requires water to flow properly. After all, lymph fluid is primarily composed of water and must be hydrated to function and flow. Drinking at least 1 litre of warm lemon water in the morning is a great way to get the lymphatic system moving to help expel toxins.
Lymphedema occurs when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. Fluid builds up in soft body tissues and causes swelling. It is a common problem that may be caused by cancer and cancer treatment. Lymphedema usually affects an arm or leg, but it can also affect other parts of the body.
Lymphoderm lotion, simply put, is the best lotion for lymphedema. Specifically formulated for lymphedema patients, Lymphoderm lotion is a soothing solution that revitalizes, hydrates, nourishes, and protects sensitive skin. Lymphoderm lotion is a skin care lotion that you can use daily.
Compression – wearing special clothing or bandages that gently squeeze the part of your body that's affected and encourage the fluid to drain away. Massage – a special type of massage called Manual Lymphatic Drainage encourages the fluid to drain away.
Compression garments: Compression garments may be socks, sleeves or wraps that have pressure to move fluid from your tissues into circulation. This reduces swelling and your risk of lymphedema complications.
Some individuals, particularly those with afferent lymphatics or lymph nodes, are vulnerable to vaccine‐induced lymphadenopathy during this phase. As a result, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals at risk of lymphedema get COVID‐19 immunization on the opposite arm or leg.
Obesity and lymphoedema are very much interlinked. If you are overweight, losing some weight will be beneficial for preventing and reducing all forms of lymphoedema. A significant gain in weight will make existing lymphoedema worse and any care more difficult.
Drink Water
It may get old to hear, but drinking water is crucial to every aspect of your health, including your lymph system! Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep fluids flowing instead of clogging up your system.
Magnesium is a really freaking important mineral that is responsible for everything from blood pressure regulation to your heart rhythm. It's also touted as an anti-inflammatory, and can help reduce some of the symptoms associated with an overworked lymphatic system.
To provide your body with Potassium, avoid refined salt (sodium) and consume more Potassium –rich foods such as raw vegetable salads, potatoes (in skin), watermelon and bananas.
Vitamins that support the lymphatic system include, vitamin A, C, E, and B-6. Common herbs that also help include goldenseal, echinacea, and poke root.
In conclusion, the traditional Chinese medical prescription Linba Fang could inhibit the pathological changes caused by lymphedema, including swelling, inflammation, lipid deposition, and fibrosis.
Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the gold standard for treating lymphedema and consists of a decongestion phase, followed by a maintenance phase. There are several parts to both phases, and all are essential to achieve the best possible outcomes.
avoiding very hot baths and showers – the heat from saunas, steam rooms and sun beds may increase the swelling. using sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) to prevent sunburn. wearing gloves for gardening and household tasks to avoid cuts if your upper limbs are affected.