Managing Lymphedema in Summer
Lymphedema is a condition that results in chronic swelling due to an abnormal collection of protein-rich fluid just below the skin often due to lymph vessel or node damage from cancer treatment, radiation, and surgery. The summer sun and summer heat can contribute to increased swelling and risk of infection in lymphedema patients. To prevent the worsening of lymphedema during the summer heat, check out our tips to manage lymphedema this summer!
Tips to Manage Lymphedema in Summer
The summer heat can contribute to increased swelling in lymphedema patients. Summer heat can cause blood vessels to expand, which increases the amount of fluid that moves out of blood vessels and into tissues. When the lymphatic system is inefficient or compromised, this excess fluid does not return to the lymphatic system properly and lymphedema can result. To prevent swelling and discomfort due to lymphedema this summer, follow these tips:
Limit your time outdoors during the hottest part of the day [11 AM to 3 PM].
Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Wear loose, non-constrictive clothing in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
When indoors, be sure to relax in an air-conditioned space.
If overheated, elevate the affected limb and place a cold towel over it.
Avoid hot showers and baths, opting for cooler ones.
Avoid hot tubs, even if the affected limb is outside the hot tub as extreme water temperature can raise body temperature and exacerbate swelling.
Swimming & Sunburns
Chlorine can be drying to the skin and cause breakage; use moisture barrier cream before and after getting in the water.
Exercising in cool water during the summer is a great low-impact workout to help lymphatic fluid drain. Water also provides a natural compressive force on your body and affected limbs.
Swim with your compression sleeve and/or place the compression sleeve on the affected limb after swimming; thoroughly dry and moisturize the affected limb after swimming.
Avoid excessive sun exposure and wear sunscreen daily. A sunburn places an extra burden on the lymphatic system and can increase swelling.
Wear protective shoes, particularly in oceans and lakes, to prevent cuts and risk of infection.
Insect Bites
Wear insect repellant to prevent bites and potential infection.
Treat insect bites immediately to avoid swelling or itching by thoroughly washing and drying the area and place antibiotic cream on the bite site.
Get your compression garment fitted after hot weather starts and when it ends so the garment is better fitted to the seasonal change of your edema.
Chill your compression garment in the fridge for a cooling sensation to the affected limb when putting on and going outdoors in the heat.
Travel
Avoid salty foods as salt can cause the body to retain fluid and stay hydrated, minimizing caffeine and alcohol.
Always wear a compression garment when traveling, especially on an airplane as the air pressure decreases in the cabin as the aircraft ascends.
Reserve an aisle seat on an airplane so you can get up and walk easily.
Avoid carrying heavy luggage with the affected limb.
Break up travel into segments so that you can exercise during layovers and allow the body to return to normal air pressure and the lymphatic system to recover before going on the next plane.
Physical Therapy for Lymphedema Patients
Our lymphedema specialist at Mangiarelli Rehabilitation, Sue, can help you manage your lymphedema this summer through complete decongestive therapy (CDT). Research has shown the CDT is effective in reducing the volume of swelling in the affected limb as well as enhancing limb function. Complete decongestive therapy includes four components: manual lymphatic drainage to remove excess fluid from the affected area; compression bandaging to prevent fluid from returning; a customized decongestive exercise program to improve lymph circulation and maximize functional ability; and education about the condition, ways to reduce risk and self-management techniques.
