Mild lymphedema treatment

kristi800

I was diagnosed with lymphedema at age 13. At that time, my left ankle/foot was puffy/swollen, but not horribly so - just a bit puffy. I was told to wear a compression garment, which, of course, I was mortified to do at age 13. I never really wore it, and my mild lymphedema never really worsened.

I'm 38 now, and in the past couple of years, I'm noticing it getting worse. When I fly in an airplane, it gets bad (from the pressure?), or if I am on my feet in hot/humid weather, or if I exercise a lot (ie biking for an hour or more), both of my feet/ankles swell, and I can gain up to 5 lbs by the day following the air travel/exercise/heat. The extra fluid remains in my legs/feet for up to a week, particularly in the summer. The swelling is not only ugly, but makes my shoes painful, and lately even my knees are achy. So - I think it's time to take action, but what should I do?

I am a very busy single working mom of 3, so lymphatic massage near daily really isn't a viable option (can't spare the time or cost).

I was thinking to start off with thigh-high compression socks at night, particularly after a day when I've done anything that typically causes the swelling. Will this help at all? What are some other options? Supplements/herbs? foods to include in my diet? I've seem lymph massaging machines - are they any good?
I'd be willing to invest in something like that if it'll be worth it.