At Risk for Lymphedema

Who is at Risk?

Reduce Your Risk

Here are some good ways to reduce your risk of developing lymphedema:

• Have injections or blood drawn from the unaffected arm.
• Have your blood pressure taken from the unaffected arm.
• Wear gloves when doing house or yard work.
• Keep your arm clean and dry. Moisturize your skin after bathing.
• Protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and protective clothing.
• Avoid lifting or carrying heavy bags, purses or other objects with your at-risk arm.
• Avoid wearing tight jewelry or clothing.
• Avoid cutting your cuticles during manicures
• Use an electric razor, not a blade, to shave your underarm.
• Use insect repellent when outdoors, but wash off when inside.
• Avoid any type of injury, including scratches and bruises, to the at-risk arm.
• When flying in an airplane, wear a compression sleeve and drink lots of fluids during the flight.
• Rest your arm in an elevated position (above your heart or shoulder).

Source: Susan G. Komen For The Cure

Information provided by Lymphedema Resources, Inc. is intended solely for education and should not be construed as medical advice or guidance which should always be obtained from a physician or other licensed healthcare professional.

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