Lymphodeama

[blackburn]

Hi I have lymphodeama and for the last four weeks I have kept my cal in take to under 1200 a day what's happening is my legs and hands are getting bigger but just don't seem to loose weight I swim 2/3 times a week and walk the dog 6 out of 7 days a week fed up

[Hidden]

Hi

Can I ask the cause of your lymphoedema?

I too have it but only in one arm due to BC,and I wear a special sleeve to keep the swelling down,do you wear any medical garments at all to help?

[blackburn in reply to Hidden]

Yes both legs 1 arm I have had lymphodeama since 12

[Hidden in reply to blackburn]

Hi,

I don't know why your legs and arm would seem to be getting bigger,do you think that as you are losing weight that they are staying the same and it only appears they are bigger as the rest if you is getting smaller??

If not maybe the fluid is building in your legs for some reason,have you a medical practitioner you could ask?

[blackburn in reply to Hidden]

Sorry meant to say yes I do wear compression garments hope to be going back in bandage soon as both legs have got out of control

[bubblybunny]

I have had it in my feet/ankles and calves all my adult life (30 years). I avoid wheat products as that tends to make the fluid retention worse. I find swimming helps too and drinking lots of water. I also wear compression socks (up to my knees) these are sports type ones - merino smart wool. They are very tight but amazing and I have worn them for many years. they are the best product I have ever used and much better than 'support stockings' from chemist etc. I know who frustrating it can be as my weight can really fluctuate often when it is not even related to my eating habits. Good luck and keep your chin up.

[Penel]

Are there particular exercises you could do? Or would massage help at all?

This is a useful page, if you have not come across it before.

lymphoedema.org/menu3/Index...

It may be worth looking at a lower carb way of eating.

healthunlocked.com/lsn/post....

Hope you can find something that works for you.

[benolge]

Hi Blackburn, well done on persisting with your actions. I agree it may just be that the rest of you is getting smaller and your arms and legs are staying the same..... However it may be worthwhile popping in and just having a word with your GP. 1200 is a v.low calorie amount. Sometimes if you drop your intake too low, too quickly for your body to maintain it's normal functions, your body starts to use up it's own proteins for energy. This is bad for fluid retention as you need body proteins in your system to keep fluid in their right spaces and muscle protein to maintain your metabolism for long term weight loss. I don't know if this is your particular issue, but if all else fails, just keep it in mind. Maybe change your diet mix a bit and see what works.