Handwashing is really not a new concept. So many people are stressed because they must wash their hands more often as a result of this COVID-19 (Corona Virus). I laugh at the silliness of it all. We should all be washing our hands before we eat, after using restrooms, and when we first walk into our house after a day of work or being out and about.
I’ve been living like this since my 1991 cancer surgery. I have one liquid soap dispenser and one foam dispenser on my bathroom sink. Do you know what’s in my foam dispenser? Listerine Ultra Clean. I use one pump of soap and one pump of the Listerine and wash my hands as soon as I walk into my house and right after I walk my dog.
Here is an excerpt from my book telling people exactly what it is like to live like a germ-a-phobe for life.
“Besides wearing the compression stocking there are many things that must be considered daily. In addition to dealing with the lymphedema, I must take precautions as I go through my day.
The one thing that most people do not understand is that I must be careful with germs…
I have to avoid athlete’s foot and clean between my toes carefully. I must make sure I do not step on anything that would cut my foot or cause infection. That is why I always wear something on my feet. I even wear slippers or flip-flops in my house. I never walk around barefoot.
The research I read right after my cancer surgery, and the information the doctors confirmed, was that germs could cause serious complications with lymphedema. An infection could send me to the hospital. Great, a place where I can pick up MORE germs!
After my surgery, it was recommended that I carry antibiotics, alcohol swabs, and a first aid kit to take care of any cut or other mishap immediately. I did do that for the first year. Keeping a first aid kit with me was annoying. I do still carry antibacterial wipes and a few Band-Aids, just in case. OK, I admit it, there is a first aid kit in my car.
You would not believe how much there is to think about when doctors tell you to avoid germs! It’s insane! Can you spell GERM-APHOBE? I wash my hands often, use Lysol in my house to kill viruses on surfaces, and always make sure my food is prepared properly.
Since my lymph nodes were removed, I have fewer “filters” than anyone whose lymph nodes were not removed. In other words, dealing with bacteria, virus, or other issues could be problematic. It’s a real pain in the neck to worry about germs and swelling all of the time, but again, the doctors saved my life with the surgery.”
So stop stressing that you must wash your hands and clean surfaces. Many people with previous or current medical issues live this way daily. I bet if you keep up with the handwashing you’ll catch fewer colds in the future too.
There is more information on the book is at www.LymphedemaBook.com. My blog is at www.KarenGoeller.com.
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In this interview with Mindy Sheier of Gamut Management, Karen and Mindy discuss how working in the film industry with a disability is very challenging, books, health, sports coaching, and other topics.
Good luck to all with lymphedema… I know it’s very difficult…
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