Lymphoedema Self-Management Plan v1

Lymphoedema Self-Management Plan

Patient Information

Long Term Conditions Service

• Author ID: JS
• Leaflet Ref: Lym 001
• Version:1 
• Leaflet title: Lymphoedema Self-Management Plan
• Date Produced: September 2022
• Expiry Date: September 2024

Introduction

Enabling you to have better control of your lymphoedema by 

• Keeping active & moving more.
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet & managing your weight.
• Looking after your skin & reducing the risk of infection.
• Wearing your compression garments as advised once they have been prescribed and fitted

What is Stable Lymphoedema

It is a long term swelling in the tissues (present for more than 3 months), that develops when the lymphatic system is not working properly.

How do I keep my symptoms stable and under control?

• Look after your skin:          

1. Wash, dry, & moisturise daily.
2. Check for changes in colour and for any injuries.
3. Try to prevent damage to your skin – sunburn, scratches, cuts, insect bites or stings.
4. Avoid having injections and blood or blood pressure taken from the swollen area.
5. Avoid very hot / cold baths or showers, and extreme changes in temperature.

• Carry out daily simple lymphatic drainage if you have been taught this.
• Move more regularly / take daily exercice - avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Aim to maintain a healthy weight.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Try to sleep in a bed, not a chair.
• Wear your compression garment as advised once it has been issued.
• Avoid wearing tight clothing or jewellery.
• Get replacement garments every 6 months, via your GP.

My daily routine ideas:

Use your phone or diary to remind you of your new, daily routine – this will help you keep your lymphoedema under good control.

 What do I need to do if:

I notice worsening of my swelling, or new symptoms like numbness, tingling, cramps, or pain. My compression garment doesn’t fit as well. 

• Remove your garment.
• Contact your Lymphoedema Service or GP if your symptoms persist. 

I develop any damage to my skin?

• Seek advice from your local Pharmacy, GP or Practice Nurse.
• Keep area clean and dry.
• Regularly monitor for signs of infection / cellulitis.

I notice fluid leaking through my skin?

• Seek advice from your GP or Practice Nurse.

I develop any redness to my skin?

• See next section on cellulitis

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a sudden, non-contagious infection of the skin.

What does it look / feel like?

New onset of one or more of the following:

• Redness and / or rash
• Swelling
• Heat / increased temperature
• Tenderness / pain
• Fever / shivers / muscular aches and pains
• Nausea / vomiting
• Feeling generally unwell

What should I do?

• CONTACT YOUR GP IMMEDIATELY – you will need antibiotics
• AVOID wearing your compression garments during an acute attack – replace them as soon as the area is comfortable enough to tolerate them.
• STOP any exercise programmes and lymphatic drainage until it is completely resolved.
• Make sure your limb is elevated when you are not moving about.
• Drink plenty of fluids.