According to a recent report, 250 Million people worldwide are suffering from lymphedema. Are you also suffering from this condition and looking for the best lymphedema self-care at home? If yes, continue scrolling this page for more knowledge.
Today, we will explore lymphedema, its types, and the best ways to treat it at home.
Moovkart has some fantastic products that help patients treat this condition at home without hassle. Continue reading to learn more about lymphedema therapies and exercises.
What is Lymphedema & its Types?
Lymphoedema is a condition in which lymph nodes build up in your body. The fluid surrounds the body tissues and leads to the swelling of particular body parts.
Additionally, the lymph moves through the blood vessels in the system and eventually into the bloodstream.
This is genetic, or one gets post-surgery, which is also considered a side effect of the operation. In many cases, it happens after 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery and takes a lifetime to cure.
It is a chronic condition that requires regular self-care practice and physical exercises at home to minimize the discomfort and maximize life.
Types of Lymphedema:
Two basic types of lymphedema are described as:
Primary Lymphedema:
A medical condition that comes from genetics and is associated with the lymphatic system is known as the primary type. In this type, the body parts are swelling and impair specific body organs.
Secondary Lymphedema:
When the lymphatic system gets damaged due to surgery, radiation, injury, infection, cancer treatment, or any other medical condition, it is known as secondary lymphedema.
5 Self-Care Methods for Treating Lymphedema
Lymphedema, being a lifelong condition, needs some self-care and treatment at home to avoid the unnecessary hassle of going to the practitioner now and then.
Now, what is the most effective treatment for lymphedema nowadays? So, let's look at some of the most effective means.
1: Elevation for swelling
If you have leg or arm lymphedema, swelling can be improved by elevating the body parts.
It helps with lymphatic drainage as gravity helps move the excessive fluid toward the functional lymph nodes. Moreover, it enhances blood circulation and alleviates discomfort.
Furthermore, this is possible by finding the correct position to raise your limbs using the cushions and other accessories.
Stay consistent with the techniques that you find helpful to achieve the best results.
2: Skincare and grooming
This condition not only messes with your lymph system but also poses risks to your skin and barrier functioning.
It leads to skin conditions such as thickening, dehydration, and high infection.
So, there is a need to look for the essential skincare routine. For example, you can start with gentle cleansing.
Get hands on a good sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays. Use a gentle moisturizer daily to keep your skin well-hydrated.
Moreover, use foot care equipment and tools to help your limbs move quickly during exercise and skin care treatment.
Moovkart has extensive foot care, including hammer toe cushions, toe separators, toe post-up shoes, and many more essential for grooming and therapies.
3: Compression therapy
Compression therapy is one of the most effective therapies for lymphedema, which uses specialized garments and bandages to apply controlled pressure on specific body parts affected by this condition.
It works by weakening the lymph nodes in a particular area and moving the lymph blood effectively for better drainage.
It is one of the most effective ways to alleviate pain and quickly eliminate discomfort.
4: Gentle exercise
Introducing some gentle exercise to your routine helps you get effective results for sweòlling and other symptoms of lymphedema.
It enhances muscle movement and blood circulation and supports your overall physical well-being.
Here are some gentle exercises that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine that are a big help for lymph care self-care for your legs:
- Walking
- Cycling
- Stretching
- Yoga
- Strength training
- Swimming and more
All these exercises are beneficial and can be chosen and enjoyed according to your ease and comfort.
5: Adopt healthy lifestyle habits
To keep up with this body condition, one must be mindful of one's lymphedema diet and lifestyle habits.
If you want to enjoy your life without giving a head to your body condition, eat a diet.
Look for a diet enriched in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It not only supports your lymph system but also improves immunity.
Avoid smoking, stay hydrated, and exercise daily to bring life to your dull and monotonous routine.
The Bottom Line:
Lymphedema is a condition that needs utmost self-care other than the traditional treatment options.
It makes it easier for the patient to treat this condition without damaging their internal body parts by excessive medication side effects.
If you are diagnosed with this condition, make sure to improve your diet and lifestyle habits and get your hands on the worthy foot care equipment needed for therapy and self-care.
FAQs
Can lymphedema go away?
No, lymphedema doesn't go away, but there is the possibility that you will feel better with regular body exercise, compression therapy, and manual lymph drainage. It helps with blood circulation and overall lymphedema symptoms.
What foods should you avoid if you have lymphedema?
Cut off caffeine, salt, alcohol, and sweets from your diet to avoid severe lymphedema symptoms. In addition, quit smoking and take omega 6 or 9 to prevent its signs.
What makes lymphedema go away?
Although there is no cure for lymphoedema, it can be treated with compression therapy, manual lymph drainage, healthy lifestyle habits, and a daily skincare regime.
What is the best diet for lymphedema?
A diet enriched with lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables makes the best diet for individuals suffering from lymphedema. Additionally, excessive intake of water helps in this condition.