The swelling from Lymphedema in your arms or legs can cause troublesome symptoms that can be painful and restrict your lifestyle. While there is currently no cure for Lymphedema, it can be managed effectively.

Effective management of Lymphedema is a lifelong program of exercise, massage, compression, and careful skin care. You can develop basic habits and make purposeful lifestyle choices to help manage your symptoms.

• Avoid the sauna or hot tub.
• Do not use a chemical hair remover.
• Use an electric razor to avoid cuts or nicks in your skin.
• Make sure blood pressure and blood draws are taken from your unaffected limb.
• When washing dishes or clothes, as well as cleaning or gardening, wear gloves to protect your hands from heat and potential trauma.
• Protect your affected limb from the sun at all times.
• When outdoors, apply sunscreen and insect repellent to your affected limb.
• If your leg is affected, always wear closed-toe shoes.
• Avoid heavy lifting with your affected limb; never carry a bag on that shoulder.
• Do not restrict fluids or protein intake in an attempt to prevent fluid build-up.
• Follow your prescribed regimen of evaluation, garment use and pump therapy.

Updated references 06/28/2019

https://www.internationalsocietyoflymphology.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/20106-35060-1-PB.pdf https://www.curetoday.com/articles/lifestyle-tips-for-managing-lymphedema https://www.mainlinehealth.org/blog/2017/02/07/10-skin-care-tips-for-lymphedema https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/coping/physically/lymphoedema-and-cancer/infection-lymphoedema

Epidermolysis Bullosa, often called "the worst disease you've never heard of," is a rare connective tissue disorder that causes extremely fragile skin. Those born with EB are called "Butterfly Children" because their skin is said to be as fragile as a butterfly's wings.

The severity of EB can vary widely among patients: some have skin so sensitive that even the slightest rub or scratch can cause serious injury, while others may have blisters or sores, but are highly functional.

Since there is no cure yet for EB, treatment consists of pain management and daily wound care and protective bandaging to keep skin safe from more trauma. Many different products are used, depending on a patient's preferences, tolerance and skin sensitivity. So it is important to work with a provider that is familiar with EB and understands what dressings will work best for each individual patient.

CCS Medical has a long-standing history of treating EB and offers hundreds of products that are specific to the disease and will help with difficult-to-heal areas. Our team understands what EB patients and their families are facing and we prioritize the timely arrival of the exact supplies that are needed. Read more about Wound Care Supplies and view our Product Guide.

Updated references 06/28/19

http://www.debra.org/whatiseb

Foot ulcers can often occur along with Peripheral Neuropathy, a loss of feeling in your limbs caused by nerve damage. The symptoms include numbness, burning pain and extreme sensitivity.

Here are some simple steps to help prevent diabetic ulcers:

Inspect your feet daily. Look at the soles, toenails and between your toes. Call your doctor if you notice:

• Hot spots, red streaks, swelling, cracks, sores or injuries
• Burning, tingling or a "pins and needles" feeling
• Toenail problems causing redness, pain, or changes in thickness or color

Clean your feet daily.

• Use only lukewarm water and mild soap; always wash between your toes.
• Dry your feet well with a gentle patting motion.
• Apply moisturizing lotion, especially to the heel area, but not between the toes.

Wear proper footwear.

• Never walk barefoot.
• Do not wear tight or uncomfortable shoes.
• Avoid shoes with open toes and heels.

Remember to have regular check-ups. Foot problems develop quickly, so it's important to see a healthcare provider regularly to track blood flow and the feeling in your feet and recommend foot exercises to promote strength and flexibility. Read more about proper foot care.

Updated references 06/28/19

https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/diabetic-foot-care-guidelines

Good nutrition is an important part of wound management. As your body heals, it requires extra calories, especially in the form of protein.

Ask your healthcare provider if you need added vitamins and minerals or if you should work with a registered dietician. And always check with your provider before making any dietary changes, since other health conditions also need to be considered.

Eating a variety of the right foods can help the healing process. Here are some suggested daily serving sizes.

Eat at least 2 to 3 servings of protein:

• 1 serving equals 2-3 ounces of meat
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
• 1 cup of cooked beans or peas

Add at least 1 serving of:

• Orange or yellow vegetables
• Dark green, leafy vegetables

Include at least 1 serving of a high Vitamin C food:

• Oranges
• Grapefruit
• Strawberries
• Tomatoes
• Broccoli
• Cabbage

Here are a few tips to boost the nutrients you need to heal:

• Increase the protein you get in milk by adding 1 cup of fat-free powdered milk to 1 quart of milk. (Drink 2 to 3 servings of milk a day.)
• Get more protein by adding powdered milk to soups, casseroles and mashed potatoes.
• Use peanut butter on bread, crackers or French toast.
• Add extra chopped meat or shredded cheese to vegetables, soups or sauces.
• Increase calories by adding margarine or sour cream to food when possible.
• Use pudding or ice cream as snacks.

Learn more about nutrition tools.