Have your legs, arms, or compression garments suddenly felt tighter during the recent hot weather?
You’re not imagining it—and you haven’t lost your progress.
Heatwaves can temporarily make lymphoedema symptoms worse. When your body gets hot, your blood vessels widen (vasodilation) to help cool you down. This allows more fluid to move into your tissues. If your lymphatic system is already working harder because of lymphoedema, surgery, or lymph node removal, that extra fluid can lead to increased swelling, heaviness, tightness, and discomfort.
The good news? Heat doesn’t cause lymphoedema or mean your condition is getting worse. It simply places a greater temporary demand on your lymphatic system.
Tips to help during hot weather:
- Stay well hydrated.
- Wear your compression garments if prescribed.
- Swim or exercise gently in cool water.
- Walk during cooler parts of the day.
- Practice deep breathing and keep moving.
- Elevate affected limbs when resting.
- Get enough sleep and eat nourishing meals.
- Protect your skin from sunburn and insect bites.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Your body is working hard, and temporary swelling during a heatwave is a normal response—not a sign of failure. Small daily habits can make a big difference in supporting your lymphatic system.
