Daily Drainage

Your Daily Lymphedema Drainage & Well-being Note

Managing lymphedema is a journey, and consistent self-care plays a vital role. This daily note is a simple tool to help you track your routine, observe changes, and stay connected with your body's needs. Use it as a personal log to better understand your lymphedema and discuss your progress with your healthcare team.

Important Reminder: This daily note is for personal tracking and informational purposes only. It is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) or healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your lymphedema management plan.

Today's Date: [JULY 2025]

General Well-being & Observations:

• Overall Feeling Today: (e.g., Energetic, Average, Tired, Achy, etc.)

• Any New or Unusual Sensations in Affected Area(s)? (e.g., Heaviness, Tightness, Tingling, Pain, Redness, Warmth, etc.)

  • Details: [Space for your notes]

• Skin Condition (Affected Area): (e.g., Soft, Dry, Intact, Reddened, Itchy, etc.)

  • Details: [Space for your notes]

Compression Therapy:

• Compression Garment/Bandage Worn Today? (Yes / No)

  • Type: (e.g., Stockings, Sleeve, Wrap, Night Garment, Bandages)

  • Hours Worn: [e.g., 8 hours, All day, Night only]

  • Comfort Level: (e.g., Comfortable, Too tight, Loose, Irritating)

  • Notes: [Space for your notes on fit, issues, etc.]

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) / Self-Drainage:

• Performed MLD/Self-Drainage Today? (Yes / No)

  • Duration: [e.g., 15 mins, 30 mins]

  • Time of Day: [e.g., Morning, Evening, Multiple times]

  • How did it feel? (e.g., Relaxing, Effective, Difficult)

  • Notes: [Space for your notes on technique, specific areas focused on, etc.]

Exercise & Movement:

• Performed Lymphedema Exercises Today? (Yes / No)

  • Duration: [e.g., 20 mins, 45 mins]

  • Types of Exercises: (e.g., Walking, Gentle stretches, Arm/Leg pumps, Deep breathing, Yoga)

  • While Wearing Compression? (Yes / No)

  • How did you feel during/after? (e.g., Better, More mobile, Fatigued, Swelling felt less/more)

  • Notes: [Space for your specific exercise routine, any challenges]

Hydration & Diet:

• Estimated Water Intake Today: [e.g., 8 glasses, 2 liters]

• Dietary Notes: (e.g., Balanced, High sodium, Healthy fats, etc.)

  • Notes: [Space for any observations on diet affecting swelling]

Swelling Assessment (If you track measurements):

• Were measurements taken today? (Yes / No)

  • Affected Limb(s): [e.g., Right Arm, Left Leg]

  • Measurements (e.g., Circumference in cm/inches):

    • [Specific points you measure, e.g., Wrist, Mid-forearm, Elbow, Ankle, Calf, Thigh]

    • AM: [Measurement] | PM: [Measurement]

  • Visual Observation of Swelling: (e.g., Same, Less, More, Pitting present/absent)

  • Notes: [Space for details or comparisons to previous days]

Any Other Important Notes/Reflections:

• [Space for anything else you want to record, e.g., stress levels, changes in routine, new products used, appointments]

Remember to share your notes and observations with your Lymphedema Therapist or doctor during your appointments. This information can be invaluable for adjusting your treatment plan and optimizing your care.