Lymphoedema Summers

Living with lymphoedema, you might find your affected limb(s) swell more in the summer months, or when you are on holiday, because of heat oedema. This occurs because heat causes blood vessels to expand, which increases the amount of fluid that moves from the blood vessels into the surrounding tissue, leading to more swelling.

Do not get too upset, as the swelling will go down when the temperatures go down.

Do spend as much time as you can in the fresh air but find some shade and remember to stay out of the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Increased swelling, prickly heat, hives, insect bites, and stings are far more likely to happen when the sun is out or you are on holiday. Good skin care is essential; make sure you use plenty of sun cream. The clothes you wear, including your underwear, should not leave indentations. Underwear that is normally well-fitting might feel tighter if your body swells from the heat.

Remember your skin can burn through clothes

However hard it might be, please wear your compression garment. Wash your compressions regularly, as body oils, sunscreen, and sweat may hasten the deterioration of your garment. Keep in mind that a bite could penetrate your compression. Always have a mini first aid kit handy that includes antiseptic cream, antiseptic wipes, insect repellents, and antihistamines. Bites or stings should be treated immediately. Keep a spare top or item of clothing in a plastic bag in the fridge for a quick change and cool down.

As temperatures rise, please ensure you drink plenty of water. Keep yourself hydrated; avoid fizzy drinks, caffeine drinks and alcohol, as they tend to increase swelling. Always apply sensible precautions. Eat frequent, modest meals and avoid salty snacks in favour of crunchy ones. Finally, having an oven-free day is my favourite piece of advice for a scorching day.

The LWO Community provides support for individuals living with lymphoedema. In the video below, we focus on heat oedema and its effects on feet, particularly swollen ankles during hot weather. Oedema occurs when blood vessels expand in heat, causing fluid to leak into surrounding tissues, which can strain the lymphatic system. To manage heat oedema, members are encouraged to stay hydrated, use ice packs, lower salt intake, stay active, elevate limbs, avoid tight clothing, wear compression garments, and maintain foot hygiene.

Hydration

If you feel thirsty, you have already started to dehydrate. This dehydration can cause an increase in thirst, a decrease in urine frequency, and a dry mouth and tongue. You may lose large amounts of fluids and essential minerals such as salt and potassium during hot weather. Additionally, you may experience disorientation and light-headedness.

The best course of action in this situation is to go somewhere cool and drink something, preferably water, not alcohol. Water is essential for regulating body temperature and biological functions.

Cucumbers, lettuce, strawberries, and watermelon have a high water content, so they can help keep you hydrated.

Warning: Severe conditions require immediate medical attention, including intravenous fluids.

Try not to wait until you are thirsty to drink; it means you are already starting to dehydrate. Start your day with a glass of water. Sugary/fizzy drinks make you thirstier and may increase your swelling.

Alcohol dehydrates your body.

Stings or bites

Remember you can get bitten through compression or clothing

From time to time we all experience insect bites or stings, but for someone who lives with lymphoedema, being bitten may become a severe problem. This could cause an increase in swelling which hopefully will only be short-lived. Watch for the signs of infection, especially for those that experience cellulitis. Check your skin daily and treat any bites immediately. If you experience swelling, feel unwell, or run a temperature, seek medical help, as you may need antibiotics.

Wear an insect repellent especially if you are susceptible to being bitten
Wash the area of the bite or sting
Gently pat dry
Use an antiseptic
Do not scratch
Place a cold compress on the affected area (might ease itching)
Drink plenty of water, to help eliminate toxins from your body
Are you planning a vacation or simply spending a day out? Put together a first aid kit for emergencies

It may be wise to take antihistamines, but do ask advice from your healthcare provider.

Ask advice from your pharmacist.

Image showings stings and bites on elevated legs

Tips at a glance

Staying Cool

Avoid sun between 11 am and 3 pm
Stay hydrated this helps the body to regulate its temperature
Wear light, loose clothing, not only keeps you cool but won't restrict lymph flow
Elevate limbs
Carry a small spray bottle of water for quick cool downs
Keep a top in freezer bag in the fridge for a cool change
Place cold, wet towels over limb for quick cool down
Most homes in the UK do not have air conditioning, so closing the curtains is one way to reduce the greenhouse effect or...
Create a cross breeze by leaving doors/windows at opposite ends of room open
Adjust ceiling fans to spin clockwise in summer and anti-clockwise in winter
Switch off all appliances not in use to stop them overheating and to prevent adding heat to a room
Houseplants are natural air conditioners
When you are out and about try and find somewhere that is cool or has shade
Keep up your regular #getmoving routine but try to schedule for the cooler hours of the day, e.g. early morning or evenings

Sunburn

Wear your compression garment
Remember you can get sunburn through your compression
Remember you can get sunburn through your clothes
Wear a minimum of 30 - 50 SPF sunscreen
Remember to top up sunscreen
Avoid sunburn as this will place additional demands on your lymphatic system and increase swelling
Protect your feet as they can burn and blister easily
Powder inside shoes with antifungal powder to prevent fungal infections
If you have had radiotherapy treatment, make sure you protect the treated area

Swimming

Compression garments: wear an old one to swim in
Check before you swim that you have no breaks in your skin that put you at risk of infection
Take a shower after swimming to wash off chlorine/salt
Thoroughly towel dry, pay particular attention to between the toes and skin folds
Moisturise your skin
Chlorine can dry your skin and may cause a breakage, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection
Wear footwear at all times around the pool to prevent fungal infections, including when you are in the shower area
Open water or swimming in the sea, wear water shoes to avoid cutting your feet on shells or stones
Remember sensible precautions – swimming is a great way to #getmoving and keep your lymph flowing

This video offers practical, non-medical ways to stay comfortable and cool during the summer months.

Living with lymphoedema you might find your affected limb(s) swell more in the summer months or when you are on holiday because of heat oedema. This is because blood vessels expand with the heat so that the amount of fluid that travels from the blood vessel into the tissue increases, swelling.

The video features a musical background interspersed with brief written descriptions of the images.

Before you go, please support us. Do you like what you see? L-W-O Community receives no official funding, and we rely on the goodwill of our readers. Please consider taking a yearly subscription so that we can continue to provide information for those that live with lymphoedema. Find details here...

Be Aware During a Heatwave

Take preventative measures against heat-related illness. Illnesses caused by heatwaves may result in respiratory and cardiovascular complications. Heat can promote dehydration and hinder the brain's ability to get enough blood. Such conditions may result in dizziness and fainting.

How can we describe the information provided by the government and the media about an imminent heatwave?

Heatwave: A meteorological word used to provide journalists and the public with consistent and trustworthy communications.

Excessive heatwave: A warning that emphasises the potential dangers of extreme heat, aimed at protecting lives and property by helping individuals make safer choices.

Heat health alert: It is a service unique to England that assesses the effect of prolonged extreme heat on public health, particularly for those of us who live with chronic health conditions.

Heat cramps: Caused by dehydration and loss of electrolytes, they may occur after physical activity.

Heat oedema: Occurs mostly in the ankles, due to vasodilation and retention of fluid.

Heat rash is characterised by small, raised spots and an itchy, prickly feeling; it may also include mild swelling.

Heat syncope: Due to dehydration can lead to dizziness and fainting

The symptom that is most prevalent is heat exhaustion. The symptoms of exposure to heat, dehydration, and salt deficiency are malaise and vomiting with a fever between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius. Heat stroke may result from the body's incapacity to regulate high temperatures.

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke occurs when the body's temperature rises too high and cannot regulate itself. Core body temperature exceeds 40 Celsius and needs to be treated immediately.

Symptoms include:

Confusion
Convulsions
Dizziness
Disorientation
Fainting
Headaches
Hot dry skin
Unconsciousness

The treatment comprises rest in a tranquil environment, drinks, and electrolyte replenishment. If body temperature exceeds 37°C and symptoms such as confusion or, in rare cases, unconsciousness occur, a visit to A&E is required.

Sunshine and Relaxation

Ah, sunshine and relaxation, two of life's greatest pleasures! Whether you're planning a holiday or just looking for ways to unwind at home, here are some ideas to help you make the most of these simple joys:

Create a Relaxing Outdoor Space: If you have a garden or balcony, consider setting up a hammock or comfortable lounge chair where you can soak up the sun. Add some potted plants or flowers for a touch of nature.
Practice Yoga or Meditation: These practices can be incredibly relaxing and beneficial for your mental health. Try doing them outside in the sunshine for an extra dose of vitamin D.
Read a Good Book: There's nothing quite like getting lost in a great story while basking in the warm sun. Choose a book that you've been wanting to read and dedicate some time each day to this relaxing activity.
Have a Picnic: Pack a basket with your favourite foods and head to a local park or beach. Enjoy your meal in the sunshine and take some time to simply sit back and relax.

Remember, relaxation is all about doing what makes you feel calm and content. So, whether you're lounging in the sun, reading a book, or exploring your creative side, the most important thing is that you're enjoying yourself.

Continual Professional Development(CPD)

I firmly support continuous professional development (CPD). Since founding L-W-O Community, I've taken numerous courses to improve my knowledge and skills, ensuring that when I write, create graphics, or make short videos, they are supported not only by my experience with lymphoedema but also by learning through CPD. This learning allows me to take a holistic approach, not only to develop my own personal skills but also to deliver the best non-medical information possible to our members and followers.

CPD Certificate: How to stay safe and healthy during a heat wave.

Page first created 22/05/2020

Last update 04/06/2025