Leg Swelling in Summer: 4 Tips to Stay Comfortable
Swollen legs in warm weather? Here’s how we can help
Warm summer days can be wonderful—but not if you’re struggling with swelling in your legs due to edema. When temperatures rise, your blood vessels dilate, making it easier for fluid to leak into surrounding tissue. This can cause your legs to feel heavy, tight, and uncomfortable. At Huidzorg West, we often help clients manage these symptoms. In this blog, you’ll learn what edema is and how four practical tips can help you stay more comfortable during the summer.
What is edema in the legs?
Edema occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues, often noticeable as swelling in the ankles or lower legs. Common causes include:
- Chronic venous insufficiency (poor blood flow in the veins)
- Lymphedema (issues with the lymphatic drainage system)
- Lipoedema (a chronic fat distribution disorder that often coexists with fluid retention)
- Surgery or radiation therapy
- Prolonged sitting or standing
- Overweight or hormonal fluctuations
In summer, symptoms often get worse. Luckily, there are simple things you can do to reduce the discomfort.
4 tips to relieve leg swelling during summer
- Elevate your legs regularly
Raising your legs above heart level helps encourage fluid drainage. Aim to elevate your legs at least three times a day for 15–20 minutes. Try lying on the couch with a cushion under your calves.
Tip: Set a reminder on your phone if you spend long hours sitting or standing.
- Wear medical compression stockings
Compression stockings apply gentle pressure to support blood and lymph flow. Opt for breathable materials in the summer to prevent excessive sweating and discomfort.
- Stay well hydrated and limit salt
Drinking enough water helps your body flush out waste and regulate fluid balance. Avoid excess salt (sodium), and choose potassium-rich foods like spinach, bananas, and avocado. Foods high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties—like berries, nuts, and leafy greens—also support vascular health.
Tip: For personalized nutritional advice, we collaborate with experienced dietitians. We’re happy to refer you if needed.
- Keep moving—smartly
Movement is essential for circulation, but avoid being active during the hottest part of the day. Choose cooler hours like early morning or evening for walking, biking, or swimming.
Tip: Swimming is ideal—it provides natural compression and cools your body at the same time.
What can Huidzorg West do for you?
At Huidzorg West, we offer specialized skin and edema therapy at our locations in Delft and Rijswijk Buiten. We begin with a personal intake and develop a customized treatment plan. Possible treatments include:
- Manual lymph drainage
- Compression therapy (Only combined with edema therapy)
- Lymph taping
- Exercise therapy
- Lifestyle and self-care advice
We also work closely with physicians, physical therapists, and dietitians to provide integrated care tailored to your needs.
Realistic goals and a personal approach
Although chronic edema or lipoedema often can’t be fully cured, we can help you significantly reduce your symptoms. We take your personal goals and situation into account and combine treatment with home care to give you more control—especially in the summer.
Struggling with swollen or heavy legs? We’re here to help.
Do your legs feel heavier when it’s warm outside? Don’t ignore the signs. Book an intake with one of our skin therapists and discover how we can support you with a tailored treatment plan.
Simply click the button below!
You can also book an appointment by phone or email.
If you have any questions after reading this information, feel free to contact us at info@huidzorgwest.nl or call us at +31 (0)15 – 2561 806.
Our team is happy to help and answer any questions you may have. We look forward to seeing you in our clinic soon!
Team Huidzorg West