How to Manage Lymphedema While Traveling
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Traveling to visit friends and family for the holidays is right around the corner! But many people living with lymphedema wonder how to best manage their lymphedema while traveling.
Lymphedema can sometimes worsen while traveling, but following the strategies below can help you better manage it.
Use compression
Studies have not found air travel to be a significant risk factor for developing lymphedema. However, each person’s risk for developing lymphedema after cancer treatment is different, so it’s best to talk with your medical provider about what’s best for you.
If you’re at high risk for developing lymphedema, consider wearing compression garments prophylactically. Make sure to talk to your medical providers, including your Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT), to see if this is appropriate for you. Increased risk factors include lymph node dissection (many lymph nodes removed), radiation therapy, and higher body mass index/obesity.
If you already have lymphedema, wear your compression! Compression will help prevent your swelling from worsening. And yes, this means wearing your compression before, during, and after travel. If you typically wear nighttime garments, pack them in your carry-on just in case your checked luggage gets lost.
Did you know that compression garments need to be replaced every 6-12 months? Make sure your garments fit well and provide adequate compression. If it feels loose or there are runs or holes in it, it’s time to get new ones!
If you need some new compression stockings, sleeves, or other lymphedema supplies, check out my go-to for lymphedema products: BrightLife Direct.
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Elevation
When possible, elevate your affected body part to help decrease swelling. You can elevate your legs by propping them up on your bag or luggage, and you can elevate your arms by resting them on a pillow or light bag sitting on your tray if you’re traveling by plane or train, or lift them for one minute each hour.
Pump your muscles
Muscles contracting and relaxing help circulation and swelling. Try ankle pumps, ankle circles, kick-outs, and marching while sitting for your legs. For your arms, try hand squeezes, straighten and bend your elbows, shoulder shrugs, and shoulder circles. Each hour while traveling, you can do a set of 10 of each exercise. The more you move, the better, but stop if you have any pain.
For full lymphedema exercise routines, check out my YouTube Playlist.
Breathe
Diaphragmatic breathing, or belly breathing, is beneficial to get the lymphatic system moving. Take slow deep breaths into your nose for 4 seconds, pause, then exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds. As you breathe in, you should feel your belly and ribs expand as you fill with air. Repeat each hour, but stop if you get short of breath, dizzy, or experience any other unusual symptoms.
Whether you’re traveling by planes, trains, or automobiles this holiday season, keep up with a routine and make sure that you monitor your swelling. If it worsens, get back to your regular routine as soon as possible and get an appointment with your Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Want a comprehensive e-guide and tracking guide for your lymphedema? Download my FREE Cancer Survivor’s Guide to Lymphedema E-Guide.
Blog post updated November 11, 2024
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