The sun and warm weather feels amazing, but for those with lymphedema there’s an increased possibility for swelling and risk of infection.
Alexa Ercolano at The Lymphie Life is a blogger living with Lymphedema sharing stories, information, and support for those living with Lymphedema and their families.
Let’s take a look at some of Alexa’s tricks to beat the heat with these Lymphedema summer safety tips!
Sunburn
If you are living with lymphedema, the summer sun is not a friend. Alexa’s advice is to avoid excessive sun exposure to reduce chances of sunburn. You can still get a sunburn even if you are wearing your compression garment. Sunburn can aggravate your lymphatic system and can increase swelling. Be sure to wear sunscreen when going outdoors and don’t forget to reapply throughout your day.
Stay Cool
Like staying out of the sun, staying cool helps reduce swelling. Stay in air conditioning when possible especially between the hours of 11am and 3pm when the day is the hottest! Drinking water to stay hydrated allows your body assistance in regulating your body temperature. Additionally, wearing light, loose clothing can keep you cool and increase lymphatic flow.
Swimming
Taking a dip in the pool is a great way to cool off during the summer, but with lymphedema, some precautionary measures are necessary before you dive in.
Wearing a compression garment while swimming is a personal preference! Wear an old compression garment or none at all, just be sure to put one on after you get out and dry off completely.
Since chlorine dries your skin, apply a moisture barrier cream before and after getting into the pool. This can prevent breakage which gives bacteria a way to enter and cause infection. Additionally, if you have a skin break on your affective limb, it’s best not to get into the water.
Take a bath or shower after swimming, and be sure to dry off completely afterward. Keeping your skin dry is important as excess moisture trapped between your skin and compression garment risks infection!
Care For Your Garment
Amongst your summer fun, don’t forget to clean your garment regularly to avoid deterioration from sweat, body oils, and sunscreen.
Additionally, it is important to get measured for compression garments as the seasons change. Fittings should occur when the hot weather starts and after it has ended to better suit the changes your edema goes through. The experts at Pretty in Pink have certified fitters that can help you determine which compression garment is right for you.
Enjoy your Summer
With these tips in mind from The Lymphie Life, you’re well on your way to enjoying this summer without adding discomfort or adding additional symptoms. Keep in mind that the goal isn’t to avoid enjoying the outdoors and sunshine, it’s to keep yourself safe from the harms of the sun and warm weather. Now get out there and enjoy your summer!
Read more about Alexa, her Lymphedema journey, and Lymphedema news at thelymphielife.com.
For all your compression garment needs to feel and look your best the team at Pretty in Pink Boutique will walk by your side and offer products to make your journey as comfortable as possible. Contact us at 615-777-7465 or email us at info@prettyinpinkboutique.com to schedule your appointment. Visit any one of our locations by appointment.