This blog will explain the ups and downs of lymphoedema and how a medical bracelet can support you in an emergency.

But first ... What is the lymphatic system?

Before we can delve into the importance of a medical bracelet for lymphoedema, we need to understand the lymphatic system. This is a system of drainage tubes and lymph nodes that help keep the body clean by draining waste and other harmful substances away from the body tissue. Find out more on the importance of the lymphatic system.

What is lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system is damaged, which can cause swelling in the body tissue; it’s especially common in the arms and feet.

Symptoms include, but are not limited to:

• An aching, heavy feeling
• Difficulty with movement
• Repeated skin infections
• Hard, tight skin
• Folds developing in the skin
• Wart-like growths developing on the skin
• Fluid leaking through the skin (Edema)

Edema is one of the most common symptoms in which the swelling can produce a watery-like fluid leaking through the skin. The swelling is caused by a stagnate lymph node in the body. Normally, there is gradual swelling without pain, but as it progresses the flexion of the area like the wrists, ankles, and elbows become so severe that it limits the movements of the joints around it, making them weak and sore.

NHS Inform explains lymphoedema in further detail.

How a lymphoedema medical bracelet can support you in an emergency?

A medical bracelet is designed to alert people of your medical conditions or any other concerns you might have that may be relevant to your care in the event you become unconscious or otherwise incapacitated. Medical alert jewelry is conveniently placed at your pulse points at your wrist and neck, so when first responders check your pulse, they will automatically find out what conditions you have or what medication you take, so the right treatment can be administered quickly.

Do I need a medical bracelet if I have lymphoedema? 

Lymphoedema can weaken the immune system.

Patients with lymphoedema often exhibit an impaired immune function which predisposes them to a variety of infections. It is important to avoid injections in the affected area as skin damage could introduce an infection. If an injection is required for any other medical purpose, then it must be done on another part of the body, where lymphoedema is not present.

Wearing a medical bracelet with this sort of information on it can alert medical professionals to your lymphoedema so they can provide you with the best treatment and administer any injections you may need elsewhere in the body.

Help avoid pressure on the affected area. 

Since swelling is the most common symptom of lymphoedema, applying pressure to the affected area could make it worse. If you need to measure your blood pressure, then it must be carried out on your other arm, or another part of the body where lymphoedema is not present.

Wearing a medical bracelet can help inform emergency workers of your lymphoedema and have them take your blood pressure elsewhere.

Your symptoms could be mistaken for something else. 

Many of the symptoms related to lymphoedema are common amongst other conditions. Swelling of the skin could be mistaken for a broken bone, a fracture, or skin disease.

Wearing a medical bracelet can help notify others of your lymphoedema and the real reason for your swelling. This will help speed up the treatment process as medical workers won’t waste time investigating a different (incorrect) cause of your pain.

A sensitive condition. 

Lymphoedema is a sensitive condition, so we recommend avoiding strenuous activities, such as excessive exercise or heavy lifting. These may include football, basketball, tennis, and baseball. Such situations could cause further injury, so limit your exercise to something simple like walking as it could improve your health and help strengthen your legs to limit the pain.

A medical bracelet can help others identify your condition and help give you the space you need.

What should I engrave on my lymphoedema bracelet? 

You may wish to include your name, condition, details of any allergies and where to find your medication (if you take any).

As a guideline, your bracelet should say “Lymphoedema” or “No BP or Needles in this arm” so it clearly states what condition you have and explains your symptoms when you cannot. You may wish to add reminders to take it easy, so you are not pushing yourself with exercise or heavy lifting whilst shopping.

We recommend that all medical bracelets or necklaces include a medical symbol. This means that if you become unwell and are unable to communicate, people that check your pulse can find your medical alert bracelet and information about your lymphoedema. Helping others to understand your condition means you can receive the right treatment, as symbols will attract the attention of medical staff.

If you are going with a medical alert bracelet with custom wording, it can be helpful to add a name or phone number to help with identification or to keep you in touch with your family.

What style do you recommend?

Since swelling is the most common factor with lymphoedema, we recommend choosing a silicone wristband as this material stretches well over your wrist. Selecting a larger size like our 228mm wristband is perfect as this would fit over the swelling with little pressure and you can enjoy daily life with more comfort.

A necklace or a medical keychain would be more suited for lymphoedema if a bracelet is not your cup of tea as these would have little contact with your body. We have a wide range of medical necklaces, and more masculine options too.

Where to go for more support for lymphoedema? 

Around 200,000 people in the UK have lymphoedema, so it’s important to remember you are not alone. Connect with others who have the same condition as they are likely to share similar experiences. You may also find it helpful to read about other people’s experiences with living with lymphoedema.

Living with lymphoedema can affect people in different ways. Nicola shares her experience and how she manages day-to-day life.

Andy was first diagnosed with lymphoedema aged 13. Have a read of his story.

The LSN is a support network for lymphoedema with help and support for all ages. Find more charities here.

Find out more about lymphoedema through the NHS website, or Cancer Research.

So, in conclusion, wearing a medical bracelet for your lymphoedema can help bring back your confidence. You can choose your own style, design and engraving to let others know how to help you in an emergency. Equally, friends and family members are reassured by the fact that they can keep in contact with you if anything happens. If you have any questions or need a hand, please leave a comment or drop us a line at help@butlerandgrace.co

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