I have Primary Bilateral Lymphedema, which means I was born with an inadequate lymphatic system. My doctors throughout my life, did not know what was causing my feet to swell, because Lymphedema information was not widely known. I was treated for years with diuretics, which do nothing for Lymphedema. My feet would be so swollen and painful that I could hardly stand by the end of the day. Sometimes I would just sit with my feet in a cold water bath.
A female physician correctly diagnosed my condition, and sent me to a Lymphedema clinic, where I got my compression hose prescribed for me. I have worn them every day for about 20 years, and am very controlled with them. I am going on Medicare this year and will definitely need help paying for them, so I implore our Congress to pass this bill to cover the only treatment for this incurable condition.
