Utah Esthetics Written State Practice Exam

Which of the following is a contraindication for lymphatic drainage?

1. Hypertension

2. Autoimmune disease

3. Allergies

4. Diabetes

The correct answer is: Autoimmune disease

Lymphatic drainage therapy is generally aimed at promoting the flow of lymph fluid and supporting the body's immune system. However, certain medical conditions can interfere with its efficacy or even harm the patient. Autoimmune diseases are a contraindication for lymphatic drainage because these conditions involve the immune system attacking the body's own tissues, which can be exacerbated by lymphatic manipulation. This can lead to increased inflammation or can interfere with the proper function of the immune response. In contrast, while hypertension, allergies, and diabetes may require caution and consideration during treatment, they are not definitive contraindications in the same way that autoimmune diseases are. It is important for estheticians to be aware of these nuances when assessing clients for treatments like lymphatic drainage.