Lymph edema! Are there any remedies that can reduce the symptoms?!


Question: Lymph edema! Are there any remedies that can reduce the symptoms!?
I've tried lymph drainage and wearing compression socks/stockings!. Are there any medications that can reduce the symptoms of a primary lymph edema!?Www@Answer-Health@Com


Answers:
I have had primary lymphedema ever since I was 13 years old!. I am now 19!. I have looked for years for an answer to this question, and the answer is no!.

I'm sorry to say, but manual drainage and stockings are the only way the disease can be controlled!. There is nothing to take that will reduce the swelling, unless your swelling is at stage 4!. (Elphant-sized limbs that look like huge deformations!.) My leg has never gotten this bad, and it is only about 2/3 bigger than my normal leg, however, I do know that water pills will help reduce SEVERE "stage 4" swelling, but will otherwise do nothing for people like me who have their lymphedema to a manageable level!. :(Www@Answer-Health@Com

Massage!. A special massage technique called manual lymph drainage may encourage the flow of lymph fluid out of your arm or leg!. Manual lymph drainage involves special hand strokes on your affected limb to gently move lymph fluid to healthy lymph nodes, where it can drain!. Massage isn't for everyone!. Avoid massage if you have a skin infection, active cancer, blood clots or congestive heart failure!. Also avoid massage on areas of your body that have received radiation therapy!.

Coping skills
It can be frustrating to know that no cure exists for lymphedema!. But if you find yourself getting down about the daily bandaging or constant need to protect your affected limb, know that you can control some aspects of lymphedema!. To help you cope, try to:

Find out all you can about lymphedema!. Knowing what lymphedema is and what causes it helps you better understand the signs and symptoms you experience!. The more you know, the better you can communicate with your doctor or physical therapist!.
Take care of your affected limb!. Do your best to prevent complications in your arm or leg!. Clean your skin daily, looking over every inch of your affected limb for signs of trouble, such as cracks and cuts!. Apply lotion to prevent dry skin!.
Take care of your whole body!. Eat a diet full of fruits and vegetables!. Exercise daily, if you can!. Reduce the stress in your life that you can control!. Try to get enough sleep so that you wake up refreshed each morning!. Taking care of your body gives you more energy, encourages healing and helps you control your lymphedema!.
Get support from others with lymphedema!. Whether you attend support group meetings in your community or participate in online message boards and chat rooms, it helps to talk to people who understand what you're going through!. Contact the National Lymphedema Network to find support groups in your area!. They can also put you in touch with other people with lymphedema with whom you can connect via e-mail or letter!.
If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed by lymphedema, talk to your doctor or other health care provider about how you feel!. He or she may be able to address your concerns!.Www@Answer-Health@Com

I've heard that massage to the area as well as compression stockings together work very well!. don't think that there are any meds that work for this condition!. sorry!.Www@Answer-Health@Com





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