Take an active role in managing your lymphedema and your overall health. Medical treatment is only one part of effective lymphedema care. A balanced diet, proper skin care and regular physical activity are also important for supporting long-term management of the condition.

Nutrition

Eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can contribute to the development of edema and may impair lymphatic drainage. Maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce your symptoms. Limit your salt intake to help reduce fluid retention.

Stay well hydrated. Drinking enough water supports proper kidney function, which helps your body remove excess fluid, proteins and other waste products.

Lymphedema is not an indication for taking diuretics (water pills). Avoid medications that may contribute to fluid retention whenever possible, and always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medication.

Skin Care

When lymphatic drainage is chronically impaired, protein-rich fluid accumulates in the tissues. This can lead to inflammation of the skin and the tissue beneath it. In addition, the body's natural immune defense is reduced in the affected area, making fungal and bacterial infections more likely, even after minor skin injuries. These infections should be treated promptly and appropriately.

Consistent skin care is therefore an essential part of managing lymphedema. Cleanse and moisturize your skin with pH-balanced skin care products and moisturizing creams that are free from irritating preservatives and fragrances whenever possible. Avoid using deodorants near affected areas. If deep skin folds are present, keep them clean and dry to help reduce the risk of infection.

Physical Activity

Daily movement of the affected limbs, including specific exercises, walking, yoga, cycling and climbing stairs, is especially beneficial, particularly when performed while wearing your compression garments.

Below is a selection of simple exercises. Perform them while wearing your compression garments, ideally 3 to 5 times a day for 5 to 10 minutes each session. Carry out the exercises slowly and with control, and avoid overexertion. The exercises should not cause pain or leave you with sore muscles.

View Exercises

Additional Tips

Clothing

Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict circulation. If you have lymphedema in your legs, choose flat shoes to help support lymph flow through the natural rolling motion of your feet while walking.

Take an Active Role in Your Care

Take an active role in your treatment and your overall health. Connecting with others through support groups or patient organizations can make it easier to manage life with lymphedema.

Avoid Injuries and Constriction

Take care not to injure the skin, for example during nail care, and avoid cuts, scrapes, insect bites and other skin injuries whenever possible. If possible, medical procedures such as blood draws or blood pressure measurements should not be performed on the affected limb. Also avoid anything that may constrict the affected area, including tight clothing or jewelry.

Avoid Heat and Cold

Avoid direct sun exposure, such as sunbathing, and excessive heat from saunas, steam rooms or hot baths. Extreme cold should also be avoided.

Massage

Traditional massage and heat treatments should generally be avoided in areas affected by lymphedema, as they may worsen swelling.

Everyday Stress

Try to reduce stress at home and at work whenever possible, as stress may have a negative impact on lymphedema symptoms.

A Perfect Fit for Your Legs

For medical compression socks to deliver their full benefits, a professional measurement of your legs is essential. This ensures optimal pressure distribution and a perfect fit — for maximum comfort and effective support.

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More about Lymphedema

  • Overview

     

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  • Lymphedema Treatment 

     

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  • Symptoms and Causes 

     

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