If you are living with lymphedema (LE), you know that heat is our kryptonite. It expands our blood vessels which increases the amount of fluid pushed into our tissues, straining our impaired lymphatic system and causing swelling. If we don’t manage this swelling our lymphedema progresses, causing more pain and creating more vulnerability to infection.
In my case, LE has affected my lower limbs. Since my first lymphedema symptom when I was 13 and my left foot began to swell, I adopted a strategy. This strategy has helped to reverse the impact of heat on my body and to slow the progression of the disease. My secret: I end all my showers with cold water on my LE-affected areas.
Today is Memorial Day in the United States, a day in which we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Visiting the graves of some of these brave men and women at Arlington National Cemetery this weekend put my daily battle with lymphedema into perspective. 
Kick your feet up.
Wear cozy socks. Let your feet experience what normal feet do – the luxury of soft fabric directly against the skin. Choose a style of sock that does not bind at the top, cutting off lymphatic flow. Diabetic socks are made with this in mind. Non-binding socks made by Sockwell (pictured right), Soft Fit and Softop are available through Footsmart.com or Amazon.
Lymphedema Diary 