Compression garments in a heatwave

Hi Molly23

I am sorry that you have not yet had a reply to your post but sometimes it can just take a little longer for someone who has experienced similar to see it and respond. 

I understand that it must feel really uncomfortable to have to use compression garments in this heat, especially as it is likely to get hotter. I really feel for you. I suppose all you can really do to help is to follow general advice and wear looser light coloured clothes in natural fibres over the top, keep hydrated and using fans etc as much as possible. 

When I had my chemo in 2022 it was during a heat wave and I bought some cooling spray from Tropic Skincare- called Morning mist and it did help to cool me a bit. There are other types too. 

Hopefully by me replying it will bump your post and someone who is also dealing with lymphoedema will see it and be able to offer more specific advice. 

In the meantime do give the Support Line a call and talk to one of the nurses if it would help. 

Jane

Thank you so much for your reply. Yes doing everything recommended, but will look into  your suggestion it's so kind of you.

I understand very well. I have been wearing lower body compression hoisery for about 25 years and used to live and work in Central London, where it’s always warmer than elsewhere in the country. 

I definitely identify with being out and about in this heat, having to wear extra layers when other ladies are just wearing super light clothing. 

i hope you don’t mind me saying that it’s good that I am not alone - I appreciate you sharing - thank you so much:)

Thanks to Jane for her very thoughtful reply - it’s good that there is empathy and support out there.

(1) Feeling the heat? Here are some tips to help you stay cool - Macmillan Online Community

There's a community blog above which has some helpful ideas. 

Lets hope that the heat will pass soon so everyone can feel more comfortable. 

I had literally just picked up my phone to have a similar moan. It's not just wearing the sleeves, it's applying the cream on already hot sweaty skin and as for doing the SLD I really don't want to put my fingers in my armpits and groin!

Sorry getting a bit gross there!

I am still wearing short sleeved tops, and in a year I have only been asked twice if I have hurt my arm.  I think it helps that I wear a black sleeve so it looks less medical. 

Sharing your discomfort. 

Take care xxx

You are amazing coping with them for all that time, I am into my 3rd year and it's the glove that is difficult to deal with. It's good to know we all struggle at times in this special club of ours! Hopefully it will be cooler this weekend. Take care.

It helps to moan to those who understand. My lovely friends try to be thoughtful by saying can't you just not wear them for a few days. Yes I could, if I want my arm to swell to twice its size and hurt. Fingers crossed for cooler weather this weekend. Take care.

I wear compression stockings on both legs (*), and yes, it's a bugger in this heat! One suggestion is to spray a fine mist of water over your compression garments and the evaporation will cool you down.

(*lymphoedema as a consequence of treatment for prostate cancer)

Thank you angusP2, that's a good idea I will try it. I feel for you in this heat, at least it's just one arm for me.