Instructed patient in lifestyle and home remedies that may help decrease edema and keep it from coming back. Before trying any self-care techniques, talk to your doctor about which ones are right for you. Compression, if one of your limbs is affected by edema, your doctor may recommend you wear compression stockings, sleeves or gloves, usually worn after your swelling has gone down, to prevent further swelling from occurring. These garments keep pressure on your limbs to prevent fluid from collecting in the tissue. Patient verbalized understanding.