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Lymphodema

Posted , 4 users are following.

Dawnsusan
Dawnsusan

I've had 3 knee replacements, the last being 2 years ago. Went to GP on Friday due to swelling in my legs and ankles to be told it's lymphodema!!!

Anyone have any magic solutions to get rid????

0 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Marina_Dee
    Marina_Dee Dawnsusan

    Posted

    Theres no magic solution.  If you are in UK and have been on your feet a lot in this hot weather it may have been the cause. Dont just stand in one place without moving.  Keep your feet higher than your hips. If you can lay flat on floor or bed with your feet as high as possible and massage downwards towards your hips,that may help. Compression stockings may help as well.  

    Has your GP given you anything to take?.

    Try moving your ankles in a circle when laying down.

    • Dawnsusan
      Dawnsusan Marina_Dee

      Posted

      Hi Marina. I am in the UK yes. I have am office job so sitting all the time. My doctor has upped my water tablets so will see !
    • Marina_Dee
      Marina_Dee Dawnsusan

      Posted

      Sitting all the time is not ideal. Try to get up and walk about at regular intervals.  Try to go for regular walks when you are not at work.  Exercise does help.
  • cynthia89958
    cynthia89958 Dawnsusan

    Posted

    Lymphoedema can be managed rather than cured. Ask to be referred to a lymphoedema clinic for advice and usually you get compression stockings, mixed blessing as they are very hot and uncomfortable but can help the swelling. Sometimes surgery interferes with lymphatic drainage, especially if you have any vein problems too. I had one TKR and that leg still larger than the other after a year. Take care and elevate your feet whenever you can, sometimes a foot soak in Epsom salt can help relieve things too.
  • ladyjack51
    ladyjack51 Dawnsusan

    Posted

    There is no cure as cynthia89958 said. But it can be managed really well. Weight has a lot to do with it so exercise and try to get some weight off. The lymphatic system is separate from the circulation system. But if you have poor circulation it makes it hard to keep the fluid in your body moving where its supposed to be going and everything slows down! It changed my life years ago. I had poor circulation in my left leg for years. The bottom end was always red and the ankle swollen but no one even told me to wear a compression hose. I could go on and on but I have had it for years . I'll write more next time

    Ladyjack514

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