grateful

lymphedema left leg since 2003 perhaps with change of life when all kind of genetics kick in... have used antibiotics with cellulitis... 4 times ER because of air travel and no meds handy... works like a charm yet cant stay on antibiotics ongoing..... stay slender through yoga swimming biking walking ... healthy diet... elevate my legs when at rest on recliner or books at the end of the mattress to raise/ elevate a bit when sleeping... sometimes I wrap while p laying piano or guitar since leg is down for hours.... wrap when going to concerts air travel sitting for long periods...drink lots of tea and lemon water.... read and learn about this condition ongoing....several out patient therapies and do lymphatic massage daily 2 or 3 times as I watch tv.. when it flares up I repeat and do all I know to bring it under control I have a pump yet don't use it very often... when warm and humid I stay in between 10 to 4 as heat and humidity can cause more discomfort... condition now for 13 years. 68 yrs young.. wear a compression stocking regularly /daily... and replace when they lose their "power".. open toe and closed I wrap my toes and use a toe cap when necessary ... count my blessings could be worse...good luck everyone...

[Lynora]

What a wonderful and detailed account of how you ‘manage’ your life with lymphedema. You are in charge. Not the condition.

[barkshire47]

nice to read your comments - and your positive attitude. I developed Lympho in arm/hand after masectomy - and I purchased a "Lymph Machine" so I can do massage at home. don't think it can ever disappear, but you can control it !! I presume when you mention that you use a "pump" it is the same as a massage machine ? I was also interested to read about the anti-biotics - was this prescribed to help your Lympho - never heard of this, maybe I should ask my doctor - though they don't like putting people , in the U.K. on anti-biotics !! keep cheerful ..... pam x

[Lynora in reply to barkshire47]

I think the antibiotics were prescribed due to cellulitis contracted 4 times over the years. She isn't on them long term (although, some people are - in the UK - to control infection). Antibiotics are not used for the lymphoedema, but for the infections patients are so prone to with the condition.

[barkshire47 in reply to Lynora]

thank you for reply pam

[Hidden in reply to barkshire47]

Antibiotics as a last resort so to avoid

Not working with worse infections

My dr says only as needed for 10 days

I take them on trips just in case they work

[lovesradio]

Love the way you are getting on with living your life, go girl!