Avoid HOT Water!

Introduction

Heat causes vasodilation, which is the widening of the interior of blood vessels. This increases the amount of fluid that moves from the blood vessels into the tissues. In areas affected by lymphedema this causes increased swelling.

To avoid this problem there are some activities that should be avoided, or approached very cautiously. The following are suggestions can help you enjoy water activities without causing lymphedema to become worse. [1]

Avoid Hot Packs

Those with lymphedema, or at risk of developing it, should avoid direct heat applications on the affected area. This includes the use of a heating pad, a hot water bottle, the use of chemical “hot patches,” or the application of mud packs. [2]

Shorten Steam Room and Sauna Time

Steam rooms and saunas are designed to raise the core body temperature and to cause you to sweat. It is recommended that exposure to this type of heat should be limited to less than 15 minutes. If this experience increases your swelling, do not use the steam room or sauna again.

Hot Tub Caution

Soaking in a hot tub raises the body temperature and can increase the swelling of lymphedema. For those at risk of developing lymphedema but do not yet show symptoms, soaking in a hot tub can cause the lymphedema to develop.

The factory setting for most hot tubs is 104 degres Fahrenheit; however most Health Department recommends that a hot tub temperature be set only at 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius).

For those with lymphedema or at risk of developing it, the following precautions are recommended. [3]

• Be certain that the tub is clean and maintained with anti-bacterial agents such as bromines. This is important because hot water harbors bacteria.
• Never soak in a hot tub that has a strong chlorine smell or has foam or scum floating on the surface. These are indications that the chemicals are not properly balanced and may not be controlling the bacteria in the water.
• Avoid placing the affected, or at risk limb, in water temperature above 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius). Above this temperature can cause swelling of the affected limb.
• Do not soak in the hot tub for more than 15 minutes.
• If you decide to try a hot tub, pay close attention to how you are feeling. Get out of the water as soon as you begin to feel really warm.
• Limit drinking alcohol while in the hot tub. Instead drink plenty of water so you are well hydrated.

Hot Showers and Long Soaking Hot Baths

• For many, a hot shower or a long soaking bath (with fragrant bubbles), is a special pleasure; however if you have lymphedema, it is best to limit this temperature to no more than 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius). 
• Limit your soaking to no more than 15 minutes.

Swimming Pools

Water excerces are beneficial and relaxing. ©Lymph Notes.

Swimming is excellent exercise for those with lymphedema; however, you must use caution about water temperatures. [4]  

• Gentle exercises are usually done in water that is 94 degrees Fahrenheit (34 degrees Celsius) or slightly less.
• Strenuous exercises, such as swimming laps should be performed in much cooler water, usually between 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius)

References:

[1] The NLN position Statement for Lymphedema Risk Reduction Practices issued in 2009.

[2]  Foundations of Manual Lymph Drainage 3-E by M. Földi and R. StröBenreuther. Elsevier Mosby 2005 pages 100-104.

[3] U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2008.

[4] Living Well with Lymphedema by Ann Ehrlich, MA, Alma Vinjé-Harrewijn, PT-CLT-LANA, and Elizabeth McMahon, PhD. Lymph Notes 2005, page 192.

© LymphNotes.com 2009.This information does not replace the advice of a qualified health care professional.  

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Category: Living With Lymphedema Updated: 2009-11-13