Hi Annery,

My name is Nicole and I have had lymphedema for 25 years now. I'm 29 and first exhibited symptoms when I was 4. I too had been to numerous doctors who nothing nothing about this condition...especially during the 80s. I understand how you feel in terms of depression and wondering about how far this condition will limit you in life. As a young woman especially in this day...looks are important and everyone wants to be successful. It's easy to let this condition get you down, but I am determined to live a normal life just as anyone else. I have found that when I get caught up on what I don't have or what I think I can't have because of lymphedema that's when the depression sets in. There is a lot I would like to share with you Annery about how I cope, here is my email address and maybe we can share some thoughts Niknik0071@aol.com

Nicole's message is right on the money, Annery. It's been 22 years for me now with lymphedema, and I still get down at times. I try to work around it the best I can though, determined that I won't let it control my life. As Nicole said, most doctors don't have a clue about how to approach or treat lymphedema. I've found that my MLD therapist and compression therapist who fits my stockings know more and are more helpful. What I'd like you to hear though is that these feelings you have are normal, and the condition definitely affects quality of life, but try your best now to let it own you. You have lymphedema - lymphedema doesn't have you. A mild antidepressant might be helpful. Hugs, Pat

I should proofread - in the second line from the bottom of my message, "now" should read "not" (changes the meaning). I think you know what I mean though. Pat

i find it doesn't matter what the illness is it 's the life change we cant cope with. what i do when i get depressed is to think of one tiny thing that happened that day that was good, and try to think of that or turn your depression into a useful tool as i am sure you have realised by now doctors don't really understand this condition you described how you were feeling very well so write it down try to write a book about your lymphedema and how it effect's your well being make it a project some thing that could end up helping thousands of people and by focusing on this it might help you to cope with the illness better, i do hope you can feel better soon i know its not pleasant. look after yourself and remember to have some me time

I DEALT WITH MINE BY GOING TO SEE A PHYCOLOGIST AND IT HELPED.....BUT AT THE END OF THE DAY I CAN ONLY TRUST AND COUNT ON GOD AND SO CAN U UST PRAY AND REMBER THIS IS THE DAY THAT THE LORD HAS MADE I WILL REJOYCE AND BE GLAD IN IT


GOOD LUCK AND GOD BLESS!

Hi Annery,
I am so with you on how having Lymphedema causes much upset and depression. It certainly gets me down too.I agree with some of the replys in that you may benefit from going on Anti-Depressents as the feelings you are expressing are those of someone who is very depressed.I know the edema is causing it but you deserve to feel better and more able to cope with it so please go and see your Doctor about going on a course of Anti-Depressants,they will help you.Sending love and light.I feel your pain.Peace n happier times,MumskiMoo

I know how you feel. So sorry you are having to change careers. It has also changed my life and I really don't like buying clothes 2 sizes too large to fit over my popeye arms. I think depression is just a natural part of this condition because we aren't going to ever be done with it.

Are you having any physical therapy? I just got a flexitouch--hope that will help. Do you have health insurance? Mine paid for this pump. Maybe that's a possibility for you. I will pray for you.

Thank you MindyH and everybody, the sad thing is my doctor knows very little about lympedema, it is possible that he does not know about the flexitouch, am the only lympedema patient he ever came across, i always search for information on the web and discuss it with him. There was a time he even told me to watch my protein intake, but when i searched for more information, protein does not affect lympedema. Will try anything to fight depression for it wont do me any good.

Hi everyone my name is Don Hanson and my wife Sandra have been dealing with lymphedema now for the past 6 months. She is now developing depression from having this. I have done everything i know how to keep her spirits up and find her the best treatment possible. I've set her up with a specialist because we all know your regular doctor doesn't know anything about the condition. I've gotten her custom made day and night stockings approve through our insurance company and also the flexitouch. i've also gotten her doctor to approve antibiotics for infection if it occurs without going in every time to see her. I'm a positive person that likes to have fun and see people life. I have tried this with my wife but it only last a few hours. I'm asking for someone that have been dealing with this condition for a while to give my wife a call and give her some encouraging words. This is new to her and she doesn't know how to deal with it. Thank You (concerned husband) Our phone number is 707-208-9004