Side Effect Educational Information

LYMPHEDEMA PREVENTION

While most people do not have any difficulties, we recommend you integrate the following precautions into your daily activities for life long prevention.

Protect the limb from trauma:

Unless ordered by your physician, do not allow anyone to draw blood, give an injection, insert an intravenous needle (IV) or take your blood pressure on the involved arm. Keep the skin clean: Carefully wash and apply

Keep the skin clean:

Carefully wash and apply an anispeptic ointment such as Bacitracin or Neosporin to any cut or injury to prevent infection.

Avoid extreme temperatures:

Protect your arm with sunscreen. Avoid prolonged time in a hot bath or shower. Hot tubs and saunas are not recommended.

Shave carefully:

Use an electric razor when shaving in the armpit area.

Wear gloves:

Gloves should be worn during dish washing, gardening, or handling household chemicals.

Monitor activity precautions:

Use the involved arm as normally as possible. Avoid overexertion such as heavy lifting, repetitive motion such as scrubbing, pushing, pulling, hammering, or carrying a a heavy purse on the involved arm.

Avoid constriction:

Avoid tight or binding jewely, watches, or clothing.

When traveling by air:

Patients with lymphedema (or at risk) should wear a well-fitted compression sleeve. Additional bandages may be required on a long flight. Increase fluid intake while in the air

Warning:

If you notice a rash, itching, redness, pain, or increase of temperature or fever, see your physician immediately. An inflammation in the affected arm could be the beginning or worsening of lymphedema.

Live a balanced life:

Eat a well-balanced diet and stay active to maintain your recommended weight

Reprinted with permission from Jennie Edmundson Hospital

MANAGING LYMPHYEDEMA

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