Lymphoedema: caring for your skin and spotting infection
What is lymphoedema?
Lymph is a clear fluid that normally drains away through small tubes under the skin. When these tubes are damaged or did not form properly, fluid collects and the arm, leg or other part swells. This is lymphoedema. It cannot be cured, but it can be controlled very well.
Why skin care matters
Swollen skin is easily infected. Most infections start from a small crack, cut, insect bite or fungus between the toes.
- Wash the swollen area every day with mild soap and dry it well, especially between the toes and in skin folds.
- Apply a plain, unperfumed moisturiser every day.
- Check your skin every day for cracks, cuts, redness or peeling between the toes.
- Treat athlete's foot early. Ask your pharmacist for an antifungal cream.
- Wear shoes outside. Use gloves for gardening.
- Clean any cut straight away with soap and water.
Warning signs of infection (cellulitis)
- The skin becomes red, hot, painful or more swollen.
- You feel unwell, feverish or shivery.
See a doctor the same day. You will probably need antibiotics. Take off your compression garment until the infection has started to settle, then put it back on.
If you have had two or more infections, ask your doctor whether long-term penicillin is right for you. It halves the number of new infections while you take it.
Get help urgently
Go to the nearest emergency unit if you have a high fever, feel confused or very weak, or the redness spreads quickly.
General information based on the Lymphoedema Evidence Library (www.vascular.co.za/lymph-evidence.html), 31 October 2026. It does not replace advice from your own doctor or therapist.