Lymphedema People ™

Hi there

I've had secondary Lymphoedema in the legs ever since cancer treatment and have had loads of different problems over time with it.

Now I've got this constant itching, scratching, sore, itching, scratching, sore cycle going on. I've had leaking lymph fluid and sores where I've scratched my legs.

Obviously I've tried NOT to do this, but have failed. Any hints and tips on what to do to help ease this situation?

Thanks in advance everyone!

Bye for now
Karen

Karen, the itching is terrible. It seems to itch to the bone. I have scratched until my skin was damaged. I tried rubbing with a rough fabric which is not good but is better than finger nails. I have found that plain glycerin works best for me. It can be found in most pharmacies including Wal-Mart. It is usually found with lotions for poison ivy. Most creams and lotions contain some glycerin. When my skin first begins to itch I immediately use the glycerin. It will have stopped the itch within 4 to 6 miserable hours. If it doesn't work, the old remedy, Blue Star Ointment is still around. While you wait, you might try patting the itching area. I found that sometimes the movement of the skin helps control the itch. It may be that the pats distract my brain from the itch. I have wondered if the area really itches or it is nerves under the skin. I hope that you find something that helps.
Betty

Hi Betty

Thanks for the recommendations. I've got to go to the Chemist to pick up some more medication, so will see what they have.

I've also noticed my Lymphoedema getting harder, have you had this too? I've had lots of lumps and bumps appear, but they've checked this at the hospital and I've also been diagnosed with Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome too, so they know it's not a reccurrence of the cancer which is good news.

Thanks again for your help! Much appreciated.

Kind regards
Karen

Hi there Karen

So good to see you post and visit

We all go through that skin issue. My skin gets so horribly dry and that can cause so many other problems.

I use a lotion everyday. I'm not sure what is available across the pond, but whatever you use, be sure it is not petroleum based. These lotions or ointment with petro help clog the skin pores and also may be a factor in keeping body heat in the leg.

if your lymphedema is getting harder and you are starting to have lumps and bumups, it is an indication that your lymphedema is progressing to a worsening stage.

What all do you do to manage you LE? Do you wear a compression garment, wrap etc? Do/ have you had MLD-CDT either by a therapist or can you do it yourself?

My best advice would be somehow to get to a therapist to see what more can be done to avoid this. Try getting a jump on this so you can prevent the progression.

Pat

Hi Pat

Happy New Year to you!!!!

Nice to talk to you too again!

I've successfully been managing the Leg Lymphoedema since the cancer treatment, but at the moment it's getting worse. I see a Lymhoedeam specialist at the hospital where I had my cancer treatment, so will ask them. I'm not due to go until February, so will ask if I can bring it forward if you think it will help.

Thanks again for your help much appreciated.

Bye for now
Karen x