If you are overweight, your swelling will be far more difficult to treat. You will find that if you put on weight, your swollen limb will become more of a problem. Sleeves or stockings will not fit as well and may not be as effective.

For these reasons, it is helpful to keep your weight within the normal range for your height if possible. If you would like advice on diets or healthy eating, your hospital or community dietitian, or practice nurse may be able to help.

Some people find that certain foods, such as spicy and salty foods, can cause an increase in swelling; other people have found the same with alcohol, especially wine.