Feeling Puffy in the Heat? Your Lymphatic System Is, Too

Why summer swelling isn’t just in your imaginationI don’t know about you, but when the weather hits that perfect "standing-outside-feels-like-a-warm-hug-from-a-sweaty-relative" level, my ankles start to feel... well, less like ankles and more like memory foam.
And I see this all the time in clinic.
Summer heat can bring out the best in us—sunshine, lake days, sandals—but it also brings out the puff. Whether you live with lymphedema, lipedema, or you’re just wondering why your rings don’t fit after a dog walk, you’re not alone.
Let’s talk about what’s actually happening in your bodyHeat causes your blood vessels to expand, making it easier for fluid to escape into the surrounding tissues. Your lymphatic system works hard to mop that up—but it can get overwhelmed. Especially if you have lymphedema or a sluggish lymph flow from other reasons (surgery, inflammation, hormone shifts, etc).
And when that mop gets heavy... hello, swelling.
Hello, aching.
Hello, “why do my shoes feel like medieval torture devices?”
What lymphatic drainage can do (besides feel like a spa nap)Lymphatic drainage isn’t just for people with a medical diagnosis. It’s for anyone who wants to help their body move fluid more efficiently and feel a little lighter.
But for my folks with lymphedema or lipedema? Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is one of the most powerful tools we have—especially in the heat.
It:

• Reduces swelling
• Softens fibrotic tissue
• Improves comfort in compression garments
• Supports better energy and mobility
• Can make you feel like yourself again

I offer sessions both in-clinic at Same Stars Wellness in Calgary and mobile treatments a few days a week, serving Cochrane, Airdrie, Chestermere, Langdon, Okotoks, and of course, Calgary itself.
“But what if I don’t have lymphedema?”You don’t need a diagnosis to benefit from lymphatic support. If you’re dealing with:

• Summer bloating
• Puffy eyes after patio season
• Feeling heavy and tired in the heat
• Traveling (hello, airplane ankles)
• Or just curious about trying it...

Come in. Your lymph wants some love too.


Summer Survival Tips for Your LymphWhile I’d love to see you on my table, here are a few simple things you can do today:
☀️ Hydrate more than you think you need toYes, even if you “don’t feel thirsty.” Your lymph relies on water to keep things moving.
The lymphatic system is like your body's internal plumbing. And just like a sink drain gets sluggish without enough water running through it, your lymphatic vessels need adequate hydration to transport lymph fluid efficiently.
When you’re dehydrated, lymph becomes thicker and more stagnant. That means more swelling, more fatigue, and more of that “why-do-my-legs-feel-like-sandbags” feeling.
Aim for small, steady sips all day, not just chugging when you remember. Add a pinch of sea salt or a squeeze of lemon to help your body actually absorb the water (and make it feel a little fancy).
🧊 Cool down smartlyUse cold packs on swollen areas (wrapped in a cloth), or take a quick cool shower. It helps calm inflammation.
🧦 Wear your compression gear, even when it’s hotI know, I know. Compression in summer feels like punishment. But consistent use can prevent that 4 p.m. leg balloon effect. Try cooling sleeves or lighter fabrics when you can.
🛏️ Elevate those limbsTen minutes with your legs up on a wall or propped on pillows can do wonders for draining the day’s buildup.
🚶 Move gently, oftenLymph loves movement. Take a slow stroll in the evening, or do ankle pumps while binge-watching whatever Netflix thinks you’ll like next.

​👉 Click here to book your session
👉 Learn more about Lymphedema from the Alberta Lymphedema Association
👉 Learn more about Lipedema at Lipedema Canada