How to Manage Your Lymphedema in Hot Weather

Managing lymphedema in hot weather is crucial, as heat can worsen swelling and discomfort. By following these simple tips—like learning how to cool your body temperature, wearing breathable clothing, modifying outdoor activities, and eating cooling foods—individuals can live better with their lymphedema and feel more comfortable during the warmer months.

Cool your body temperature

Drink cool fluids throughout the day and stay well-hydrated to help regulate your internal body temperature. Cool showers or gentle footbaths can also provide quick relief from heat. Using cooling towels, fans, or misting sprays can help lower surface temperature—especially on the neck, wrists, or behind the knees. When choosing compression garments, consider garments made from moisture-wicking, breathable materials.

Modify outdoor activities

Avoid being outdoors during the hottest parts of the day — aim for early mornings or evenings when it's cooler. Consider moving your exercise indoors to an air-conditioned space, such as doing yoga or stretching, or choose swimming, which provides gentle compression and helps support lymphatic flow.

Modify your clothing

Wear loose, light clothing to improve lymphatic flow and stay cool. Try cooling techniques like misting with water or chilling compression garments before donning. However, beware of staying in moistened garments for long periods - bacteria could be lurking and you want to avoid skin breakdown or infections.

Eat smart

Incorporate cooling foods such as cucumber, watermelon, coconut water, mint, and buttermilk into your diet to help manage body temperature during summer. Avoid salty foods which can cause you to retain fluid and increase swelling. Minimize diuretics like alcohol and coffee, which can dehydrate you, especially in the heat.

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🌍 12th International Lymphoedema Framework Conference

October 23–25, 2025 | Sheraton Fallsview, Niagara Falls, Canada

“Building Bridges: Connecting Global Perspectives”

We’re thrilled to share the first details of the programme for the 12th International Lymphoedema Framework Conference — a truly global event bringing together health professionals, researchers, and patients from around the world to advance lymphatic health.

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Lymphedema and Chronic Edema Management

Fall Course Offering: September 22 - October 31, 2025

This series of online educational modules presents an in-depth, expert-facilitated overview of key topics in lymphedema and chronic edema management across practice settings from pediatrics to elder care.



This professional learning course offers a high-quality educational experience for healthcare professionals working in Canada and abroad. Learners receive a certificate for 35 education hours upon completion.

The Canadian Lymphedema Framework gratefully acknowledges the contributions of these industry partners whose support helps to make our important work possible. Please visit them online to learn about their lymphedema products and services. Simply click on their logo, below, to be taken directly to their website.

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