We know coping with cold weather can be challenging when living with lymphoedema and/or lipoedema, as temperature changes can exacerbate symptoms or affect circulation. 

Here are some practical tips to help manage your lymphoedema and/or lipoedema during the colder months:

1.  Stay warm and comfortable

• Layer clothing - wear warm, breathable layers to keep your body temperature stable. 
• Protect your skin - use gloves, scarves and warm socks to shield your skin from the cold and prevent dryness or cracking.
• Heated accessories - use hand warmers or heating pads, but avoid direct heat on the affected area to prevent skin damage.

2.  Maintain skin care

• Moisturise regularly - cold weather can dry out your skin, increasing the risk of cracks and infections. Use a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser or emollient. 
• Avoid hot showers - while tempting, hot water can dry out the skin. Use lukewarm water for bathing, if you can stand it!
• Inspect skin - check daily for any signs of infection, dryness or injury.

3.  Exercise and movement

• Stay active indoors - gentle exercises like yoga, pilates or stretching can help improve circulation and lymphatic flow. For more information on how gentle exercise can help ease your lymphoedema symptoms, read our 5-minute guide here.
• Wear compression garments during activity - these garments provide support and help manage swelling during exercise.

4.  Manage compression

• Wear compression garments properly - ensure your garments fit well, even in colder months, as swelling may fluctuate. Consult with a lymphoedema specialist for adjustments, if needed.
• Protect compression garments - avoid exposing them to cold, wet weather as it can reduce their effectiveness. Wear an additional layer  (or more!) when going outside to keep your compression and your affected limb(s) as warm and as dry as possible.

5.  Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet

• Drink plenty of water -  proper hydration supports overall circulation and lymphatic function.
• Anti-inflammatory foods - include foods rich in antioxidants, like berries, leafy greens, and omega-3 fatty acids, to reduce inflammation. For more information on how a healthy diet can help when you are living with lymphoedema or lipoedema, read our 5-minute guide here.

6.  Avoid triggers

• Limit exposure to extreme cold - prolonged exposure to the cold can reduce circulation and make swelling worse.
• Avoid tight boots or gloves - these can restrict lymphatic flow, particularly if worn for extended periods.

7.  Seek professional support

• Lymphoedema therapy - regular manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) therapy can help manage symptoms. Speak to your GP or specialist nurse for further advice on MLD and whether it could be the right course of treatment for you.
• Specialised products - consider using winter-specific compression garments or accessories designed for lymphoedema management. Again, speak to your GP or specialist nurse for further advice.

8.  Plan ahead

• Emergency kit - carry moisturiser, spare compression garments and a small first-aid kit in case of skin irritation, discomfort or injury.
• Travel tips - when travelling in cold weather, take frequent movement breaks and try to ensure you stay warm and dry as much as possible.