Health Alert WEB EXCLUSIVE: Lymphedema

Question: How can I lower my risk of developing lymphedema?

Answer: There is no way to know who will develop lymphedema, but there are things you can do that may lower your risk:

• Exercise and stretch your muscles on a regular basis. Don’t overwork your body; if you feel discomfort, take a break.

• Maintain or safely work towards a healthy body weight.

• If you get a cut or scratch on your at-risk arm or hand, clean the area with soap and water and apply antibacterial ointment such as Bacitracin® or Neosporin®. Cover the area with a bandage.

• If you get a burn on your at-risk arm or hand, apply a cold pack or cold water for 15 minutes, clean the area with soap and water, and cover it with a bandage.

• Watch for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, increased heat, or tenderness.

• Blood draws and injections (shots) in your at-risk arm

-If you had a sentinel lymph node biopsy, it’s better to have your blood drawn and shots given on your arm that’s not at risk for lymphedema. However, you can use your at-risk arm if needed.

- If you had an axillary lymph node dissection, always use your arm that’s not at risk, unless your doctor tells you it’s okay.

-If lymph nodes were removed on both sides of your body, talk with your doctor about which arm would be safest to use.

• Be careful not to get sunburned. Use sunblock with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply it often.

• Use insect repellent to avoid stings and bug bites.

• Use a lotion or cream daily to help protect the skin on your at-risk arm and hand. Don’t use scissors to cut your cuticles; instead, push them back with a cuticle stick.

• Wear gloves when washing dishes, gardening, or cleaning with harsh detergent or steel wool.

• Be careful if you shave under your at-risk arm; consider using an electric razor. If you get a cut while shaving, take care of it following the instructions above.

• Don’t use heating pads or hot-packs on your at-risk arm or shoulder.

• Take off any tight or heavy jewelry or clothing that has tight elastic and leaves a mark on your arm. These things can lead to swelling.