[ Post a Response | Lymphedema Board ]
Posted by Cassie on 12/21/2008, 11:37 pm, in reply to "finger cots and infections"
12.72.93.22
Hi, Sheryl,
I'm really sorry about all these complicated concerns -- no easy answers!
First off, let me say that kids with lymphedema have it very rough - much harder to get the care they need and the products they need than what we face. Their parents are really up against a tough situation! In other words, no point looking for solutions in that direction. Sigh!
Sheryl, when you say your OT wants you to protect the tips of the fingers, do you mean ALL the fingers? In that case rubber gloves would be more practical. Are you okay with latex? There are rubber gloves without latex, of course, but if you're allergic you have to be watchful about those things. If you're only talking about a finger cot on your infected finger, then usually the idea would be to use it over a dressing, which would solve the size issue.
Can you use Aquaphor on your skin? If so, that would be a good idea for controlling the hangnails. A daily application on all fingertips, and a cotton glove to cover it until the Aquaphor has a chance to work. Have you seen a dermatologist for allergen-free lotions?
The other specialist you need on your team is a good infectious disease doctor. S/he would be able to help you with the antibiotic issue, and the sooner you have a plan in place for skin infections the better, because cellulitis is not something you can experiment with once you get it -- spreads like crazy.
It's great that you're working so hard to lower your lymphedema risk. Good for you! And I trust all that care will result in no "swell" days, ever!
Cassie
Message Thread:
« Back to thread