Hello,
My name is Andy and I have lymphedema. I am 33 years old and have always been active with excercising and weight training. I have some questions and I am hoping and would really appreciate whatever answers I can get.
I was diagnosed with lymphedema in my lower right leg about 8 years ago. I was told it was caused by a bug bite. I was given the compression stocking to wear and was given antibiotics to get rid of the infection that had set in. Once the infection and swelling went away, I stopped elevating my foot and stopped wearing the garments and for about 4 years, had very little or no swelling. Since then, Ive had a few flare ups were the leg would get infected and swell up and just recently happend again last week. The vascular dr that is treating me told me that I will always be prone to infections and even blood clots. When he says blood clots, is he talking about when the leg is swollen? Will I always be prone to blood clots even if there is no swelling? I told him that I am on HRT and he told me to stop it, he said the slightest amount of testosterone can cause blood clots. I have been on HRT for about 4 years now and if I dont get my injections, I feel miserable and tired all the time. Does anyone here have any knowledge about this?
I have now resigned myself to following a strict regimen on preventing swelling, no matter how well my leg feels and looks I am always going to treat it like it should be. I really kick myself for not being as diligent as I should have, but no Dr ever told me that this problem would cause me to be suspectible to infections. The two Drs that Ive talked to acted all nonchalant about it and just told me to wear the garments and keep my leg elevated whenever possible and to raise the foot of my bed so I can sleep with my leg elevated above my heart.
In short, here are the questions that I have guys and girls
1. IF I follow a strict regimen and keep my weight inder control, can I expect this problem to appear in another limb that is currently not prone to swelling?
2. Will I have to be careful about what medications I take?
3. Will I have to stop my hormonal injections? I only take a supplemental dose. I dont want to worry about blood clots.
4. Can I always expect to be fighting off fevers and infections over the slightest things?
5. Can I still expect to be able to excercise reguarly? Ive been into body building since I was 14 years old and I have no plans on quitting at all.
6. Is there any natural supplements that I can take that will help with this problem? Like natural compounds, herbs, and vitamins?
Thanks alot for your help and comments people.
Andy