ITCHING

[AuntyJean15]

Hi all. I have Lymphodema in both my legs. I had total knee replacement 4 weeks ago, my knee is swollen and my lower leg and foot is is swollen. My skin is very dry in those areas. Obviously, I have swelling because of the surgery but also because of the Lymphoedema so decided to get back to my ritual for Lymphoedema.

My problem is when I have done MLD, applied cream and put my compressions on, my lower leg from ankle to about 6 inches up is incredibly itchy.

It was worse last night after I had taken the compressions off. No sleep!

Has anybody experienced this or have any advice please.

[Lynora]

Might be old fashioned, but worth a try - 3 parts bicarb 1 part water to make a paste. Apply it to the itchy parts and leave for 20 minutes. Rinse off, pat dry, apply your usual emollient (unless you are donning garments, in which case, no cream).

Another tip: keep a damp towel in the fridge, and lay it on the itchy bits when it’s making you demented!!

[AuntyJean15 in reply to Lynora]

Thankyou for that. I will definitely try the bicarb. I've got a towel in the fridge too.

[Dash01 in reply to Lynora]

I have these re fillable cold packs which you just put water in and pop in fridge or freezer when I’m really itchy and irritated I use them. They are lift saver as I also struggle with regulating my body temp and live with the fan on! I have linked them also below, maybe these will help you 😊

amzn.eu/d/2HVPQJA

[AuntyJean15 in reply to Dash01]

Thankyou so much. I am very grateful and will definitely have a look at them. Enjoy your day 😊

[chris47]

I have lymphoedema of the arm and leg, when i get itchy arm or leg i use a wet towel, i use cold water to wet.

[AuntyJean15 in reply to chris47]

Thanks. I was doing that at 2 o'clock this morning. It did calm the itching down. 😊

[chris47 in reply to AuntyJean15]

Yes it does make a difference. Could i ask if you are moisturising, i moisturiser my legs before going to bed and it does help a little.

[AuntyJean15 in reply to chris47]

I moisturise every night. I'm sat in a chair this afternoon, I have my compressions on and my lower legs legs are so itchy, especially the right one where I had TKR 4 weeks ago. The thing is, I believe I have varicose excema in both my legs - told this by a GP years ago. After my TKR surgery, my right leg was so bruised, swollen and got so very hot the skin started to dry.

I'm not sure if all this itching problem is because of the Varicose excema, the surgery and the Lymphoedema so I'm dealing with my legs as I would my Lymphodema.

I'm just reaching out because I'm struggling. It's so comforting to know that there are people who will listen. Thankyou 😊

[1vern0n]

Your GP or pharmacist may suggest taking an antihistamine to see if this relieves the itching. Check before taking any.

[AuntyJean15 in reply to 1vern0n]

Hello and thankyou for your message.I have recently been thinking about that myself. I have been prescribed a wash solution, emollient and a strong hydrocortisone cream. My GP said to contact if I still have issues.

Unfortunately, nothing has changed up to now. I been using the new meds for 4 days. I'm trying to remain positive and continuing to use them for a bit longer.

Fingers crossed!

[1vern0n]

I not only have itchy legs but an eczema type rash appears when wearing stockings. I am suspecting that I have an allergy to lycra or a component in the material. I am awaiting a patch test to rule out anything, unfortunately it will be a long NHS wait and I understand that this is not a priority for them.

[AuntyJean15 in reply to 1vern0n]

I hope your wait isn't too long. I have Lymphoedema in both legs, I wear compressions but, to be honest, they are now aggravating my legs so causing more itching.What vicious circles we can get on 😄