Summer Living with Lymphedema: Simple Ways to Stay Active, Comfortable, and Confident
- The After Cancer
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
Summer often brings vacations, pool days, gardening, travel, and more time outdoors. But if you're living with lymphedema - or you're at risk after cancer treatment - you may also wonder how heat, humidity, and increased activity could affect your symptoms.
During a recent Chat with an Expert, occupational therapist and Certified Lymphedema Therapist Anna Grace Thronberg shared practical advice for protecting your lymphatic health without giving up the activities you enjoy.
Her message was reassuring: you don't have to avoid summer - you just have to prepare for it.
Heat can increase swelling
Warm weather naturally causes blood vessels to widen, which may contribute to increased swelling in people with lymphedema.
That doesn't mean you have to stay indoors all season. Instead, plan ahead by seeking shade, using cooling towels or fans, taking breaks from the heat, and avoiding prolonged exposure whenever possible.
Hydration helps - not hurts
One of the biggest myths surrounding lymphedema is that drinking less water reduces swelling.
In reality, dehydration can make symptoms worse by making lymphatic fluid more difficult to move throughout the body.
Staying hydrated, combined with regular movement, helps support healthy lymphatic circulation.
Keep your body moving
The lymphatic system relies on muscle movement to help circulate fluid.
Whether you're walking, stretching, swimming, or simply standing up during a long flight, gentle movement throughout the day can make a meaningful difference.
If you're traveling, remember to move at least once every hour whenever possible.
Don't overlook skin care
Protecting your skin is one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of complications.
Sunburns, insect bites, cuts, and scrapes can increase the risk of infection and may worsen lymphedema symptoms.
Daily moisturizing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and checking your skin for changes can all become simple habits that support long-term health.
Traveling? Plan ahead.
If you're heading on vacation, don't forget to pack:
Compression garments (if prescribed)
Sunscreen
Moisturizer
Medications
A reusable water bottle
Choosing rolling luggage instead of carrying heavy bags and wearing loose, comfortable clothing can also make travel easier.
Progress, not perfection
Perhaps the most encouraging takeaway from the session was that managing lymphedema isn't about avoiding life.
It's about understanding your body, making thoughtful choices, and having the confidence to continue doing the things you love.
With a little planning, summer can still be filled with travel, movement, connection, and joy.
Watch the full Chat with an Expert recording in The After Cancer Library for more practical tips and resources on living well with lymphedema.
