3. Do everything you can to avoid injuries and infection in the affected limb: 
    • use an electric razor to shave the limb to avoid skin cuts 
    • wear gloves when gardening or doing housework and wear thimbles when sewing 
    • suntan gradually, if at all, and use a sunscreen 
    • avoid walking barefoot, particularly on the beach or wading in water 
    • use insect repellents and wear protective clothing to avoid insect bites 
    • clean any breaks in your skin with mild soap and water, then apply an antibacterial ointment 
    • use gauze wrapping instead of adhesive tape on any skin wounds 
    • if you develop a rash, consult your doctor 
    • try to minimize all the "invasive" procedures for drawing blood and giving medications—injections, finger
      pricks and IVs—on the affected arm or leg 
    • take good care of your nails and don't cut the cuticles 
    • cut your toenails straight across 
    • see a podiatrist for any foot care problems 
    • keep your feet clean and dry and wear cotton socks 
    • avoid extreme hot or cold—ice packs and heating pads, for example—on the swollen limb.