Many
persons with secondary lymphedema post-cancer therapy do not look after
their condition. This is NOT the most economical route; it will not 'go
away'. The condition with its swelling & tissue changes will
advance and become increasingly more uncomfortable, more difficult and
costly to treat, and presents potential health risks. Properly cared
for, the condition can be successfully managed and reduce or even avoid
expensive treatments and personal hardship.
To reduce the cost of managing lymphedema:
•
Observe the guidelines for those at risk of developing lymphedema.
These guidelines are also important to help control lymphedema. Most
books on lymphedema will list these guidelines or download them from
http://www.lymphnet.org/
• Learn how to look after yourself as much as possible. Self-care videos are available at: http://jovipak.com/video.shtml.
• Maintain healthy weight. Less weight takes a load off the lymphatic system. Just do it!
• Compression
garments are essential to control swelling and to assist lymph
circulation. ‘Off-the-shelf’ daytime garments cost about $50; custom
sleeves are much more expensive.
• Avoid
having to pay for a custom sleeve by getting treatment at the first
sign of swelling. When the limb becomes large and irregular in shape,
then custom garments are required.
• Apply to the Marilyn Westbrook Fund to help
with the cost of lymphedema garments. Details are found at:
http://www.lymphnet.org/patients/westbrookFund.htm
• Cultivate an activity that promotes relaxation such as
prayer, meditation, gentle yoga, swimming, Tai-Chi, or ask a therapist
who can train you in ‘Home-Tapping’. Fibrosis (that can impede lymph
flow) is less likely to develop when stress in controlled. Also,
activities involving gentle exercise will tone muscles promoting lymph
circulation. Use night-time compression to help control lymphedema.
• Your
therapist can teach you and/or a member of your household to bandage
properly. Although more expensive than bandaging, night-time garments
that are easy on-&-off are also available. Applying good night-time
compression will save on therapy visits.
• Avoid costly hospital stays to treat cellulitis by working with a therapist trained in the management of lymphedema.
IF you live where your doctor is not familiar with lymphedema aftercare or there aren't any therapists trained in lymphedema therapy --- or if there just is no one to help you:
- Go to: http://www.lymphnet.org
- Email: drhow1@earthlink.net
THERE IS MUCH HELP FOR YOU... NEVER GIVE UP!
If you must
provide your own care, we can provide some self-massage movements with
easy instructions that can help you. This is no substitute for
one-on-one medical care. You still need proper medicare &
attention. Ask us.