Lymphedema Preventive Measures Checklist

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Being obese can increase your risk of developing lymphedema. Talk to your cancer care team about what is a healthy weight for you.

Keep skin and nails clean and cared for, to prevent infection.

Cut toenails and fingernails straight across to prevent ingrown nails and infections.

Use cream or lotion to keep the skin moist.

Watch out for small cuts such as paper cuts or breaks in the skin and carefully monitor them till they are healed. An antibacterial ointment can help.

Avoid needle sticks of any type into the arm with risk for lymphedema. This includes talking to your nurse or cancer care team about shots or taking blood for tests in the affected arm.

Use a thimble for sewing.

Avoid testing bath or cooking water using the limb with lymphedema as there can be altered sensation in the affected limb resulting in burns.

Wear gloves when gardening and cooking.

Use sunscreen when outdoors.

Wear only loose jewelry and clothes without tight bands or elastic.

Do not carry handbags on the arm that has had lymph node removal in the axilla.

Do not use a blood pressure cuff on the arm where you have had lymph node removal.

Do not use elastic bandages or stockings with tight bands.

If you have lymphedema, keep the arm with lymphedema raised higher than the heart when possible.

Do not swing the arm quickly in circles or let the arm hang down. This makes blood and fluid collect in the lower part of the arm.

Do not apply heat to the arm that is affected.

Talk to your cancer care team and especially to a certified lymphedema specialist to know what kind of exercises can help you reduce the effects of lymphedema.

If you’re planning airplane travel, talk to your lymphedema therapist about a fitted sleeve. Do not lift very heavy suitcases. Get out of your seat and move your arm from time to time.

The list of preventative measures that can help reduce your risk of lymphedema after surgery(or radiation) or its severity if you already have it.

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