Which U.S. counties have the highest rates of breast cancer? (searchable map)

The 2016 Race for the Cure, an annual fundraiser for the Oregon and Southwest Washington chapter of the Susan G. Komen cancer organization, happens Sunday in Portland. For the occasion, we've created an interactive map that shows the incidence of breast cancer in every U.S. county for which data were available.

We've also compiled data on other forms of cancer for comparison. Nationally, an average of 224,504 women were diagnosed with breast cancer each year from 2009 through 2013, the latest years reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That's 123 new cases per 100,000 women, the CDC estimates. Rates of breast cancer vary considerably across the country.

They range from 51 cases per 100,000 in Pulaski County, Ga., to almost 500 cases per 100,000 in Williamsburg, Va. The CDC adjusts all rates to account for variations in age profiles across counties. Multnomah County was slightly above the national average at 137 cases per 100,000 women. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women, according to the CDC's Cancer Statistics Working Group.

It's also: the single most common cause of death from cancer among Latinas; the second most common cause among white, African American and Asian American women; and the third most common cause for Native American and Alaska native women.

Search the interactive map here.

This Wig Vase Is Possibly The Coolest Vase Ever

This is the Wig Vase by designer Tania da Cruz. They come in both black and white This is the Wig Vase designed by Tania da Cruz. It's a hollow, head-shaped vase that sits atop a smaller water vase that you can put flowers in to create your own floral hairstyle. Pretty clever.

Join Our Team!

Are you a troubleshooter? Do you like helping people achieve better quality of life? We have an opening for a full-time compression garment fitter! You will have the opportunity to train under the BEST garment fitter in the Houston-area (some say in the whole United States!), Kristen Knowles. If you are looking to improve lives, please message us here, send an email at kristen@hairandwellness.com or call us at 713-623-4247. We're looking forward to expanding the Ricky Knowles Hair and Wellness Team!

Ricky Knowles Hair Loss Specialist

Our very own Ricky Knowles is in Dubai, showcasing his talents at the Beautyworld Middle East Trade Fair, The Largest International trade fair for hair and beauty products in the Middle East. He was selected to attend the trade fair in Dubai on behalf of New Image University/New Image Labs Corp., the world's hair replacement products leader. Ricky is demonstrating his amazing hair duplication techniques as well as exhibiting new products that he has helped develop with New Image for hair care and hair loss. We're so proud of him!

A Recent Review About Our Hair Loss, Lymphedema & Mastectomy Team!

"Do not miss the opportunity to visit Ricky Knowles Hair and Wellness. Ricky, Kristen and their team have been instrumental in making my journey a little less difficult. Ricky literally searched the world over to find the perfect human hair wig for me, then custom fit, cut and colored it to perfection so not even my family could tell it wasn't my own hair!

I volunteer at MD Anderson and the staff actually thought I was one of the few who did not lose hair in treatment. When I started going without the wig they wondered why I cut my hair so short - ha ha.

I developed mild lymphedema post radiation and it was challenging fitting me with a sleeve because I have such skinny arms and the edema only presented mid forearm. Kristen came to my rescue and we have tried different manufacturers to come up with just the right fit. I go to pick up my new "psychedelic" sleeve today:)

Last, but certainly not least, is Alex - the insurance miracle worker guru. Ricky was not in my network, but Alex contacted my insurance company and found out what I needed to do. After I did my part he went to work and filed all the necessary paper work. After review Aetna not only approved them but paid for my custom wig!!

Ricky Knowles Hair and Wellness has helped countless people with hair loss and lymphedema. I hear such positive stories many times over from patients I meet in the Breast Center at MDA. They truly make a difference in our lives that benefit us everyday."

-Rosemary

New Hair And Wellness Website!

We just launched out new website today! We're so proud of how it turned out and hope that you will find it full of good information about post-mastectomy products and services, hair loss and lymphedema solutions. The photos are of our real clients! We're so blessed that they agreed to pose as our models!
www.hairandwellness.com

Best Weight Loss Apps of 2014!

Year after year, weight loss reigns as one of the most popular New Year's resolutions. Yet obesity remains an epidemic in the United States. Whether you want to lose 5 pounds or 50, stick with it in 2014, so that next year your goal is just to keep the weight off. With countless apps and wearable tech designed to help you meet your fitness goals, there are no excuses this year. Eat well, work out, and stay motivated with the help of this technology.

Lose It!
www.loseit.com

Lose It! has been one of the most popular health apps on iTunes for several years now. The easy-to-use app makes it easy to keep track of weight loss goals. Enter your current weight and your desired weight and the app will tell you the maximum daily calories you can consume to meet your goal. Log fitness activities and scan barcodes on food items, to easily keep track of your progress. Weigh yourself every day and see a line graph of your progress. This free app is available on iOS and Android, with additional charges for upgrades.


Daily Workouts
www.dailyworkoutapps.com

Save money on a gym membership this year. Work out at home! The Daily Workout app is essentially a workout video for your smartphone or tablet, broken up into five or ten minute routines. This app will get your butt, arms, abs and legs in shape, while saving you a time. The workouts are as effective as your local fitness class. This free app is available on iOS and Android, with additional charges for upgrades.

Jawbone UP
www.jawbone.com

"Wearable tech," was definitely a catchphrase of 2013 and that's expected to continue into the new year. With fitness-tracking wristbands gaining popularity, there's no sign that the momentum is slowing down. The Jawbone UP band is one of the more popular devices and recently came out with a new version, called the UP24. In addition to tracking steps taken and calories burned, the water-resistant band keeps tab on sleep patterns via its smartphone app. Set an alarm to wake you up in your lightest sleep phase, and the band promises you'll be refreshed. Add friends to your "team," and tell them to step it up! The Jawbone UP24 retails for $149.99


Fitbit
www.fitbit.com/iphone

The Fitbit is another contender for the hottest in wearable tech. The recently released Fitbit Force, is an upgrade to the Flex. Like the Jawbone UP, the Fitbit bands track steps taken and hours slept. Yet unlike the previous Fitbit, the Force displays real-time data on the band's screen, doubling as a watch. Sync with the app to track progress and compete with your friends. The Fitbit Force retails for $129.95


ShopWell
www.shopwell.com/home/mobile

In an era where people track everything from carbs to gluten, ShopWell helps you keep track of all your dietary needs. Next time you're at the grocery store, scan barcodes of food items and ShopWell will tell you if the product meets your requirements. If not, it will suggest another similar product that does. Whether you're looking to lose weight, avoid allergies, or help with diabetes, ShopWell will do you well. This free app is available on iOS and Android.

What you need to know about BRCA gene testing

What is BRCA gene testing?
Everyone has BRCA genes that produce tumor-suppressing proteins. But risky BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations leave a person more susceptible to cancers, including breast and ovarian cancers. BRCA testing is used to determine whether a person has such a mutation, which can be inherited from either parent. Each child of a parent who has a mutation in one of these genes has a 50 percent chance of inheriting the mutation.

What does the test entail?
BRCA gene mutations are detectable through DNA from a blood or saliva sample. It usually takes about a month to get results once your sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What does a positive result mean?
A woman's lifetime risk of developing cancer is “greatly increased,” if she has a harmful BRCA mutation, according to the National Institutes of Health. About 12 percent of women will develop breast cancer at some point compared with up to 65 percent of women who inherit a harmful BRCA1 mutation. Other cancers are linked to mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2, including fallopian tube, abdominal and pancreatic cancers. Men with harmful BRCA gene mutations face higher risk of prostate cancer.

How common are high-risk BRCA gene mutations?
The likelihood of carrying a BRCA gene mutation is extremely low for people with no family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Only about 10 percent of all breast cancers and 15 percent of all ovarian cancers can be traced back to inherited genetic mutations.

Who should take the test?
Because BRCA gene mutations are relatively rare, many doctors agree only those who have specific family patterns of cancer should consider the test. Such patterns include having multiple family members who have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, especially at a young age; cases of male breast cancer; and two or more cancers in one family member.

For anyone thinking about such testing, experts strongly recommend genetic counseling by someone who is experienced in cancer genetics. Counseling can help assess the need for testing in the first place, as well as facilitate discussion about what kinds of decisions a person faces once she gets her results.

What kinds of decisions should you be prepared to make?
A person who finds out she has a BRCA gene mutation faces some difficult decisions. Some women choose enhanced cancer screening, beginning with regular mammograms in their 20s, for example. Others choose risk-reducing surgeries like mastectomies or the removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes. People also consider chemo-prevention regimens of drugs and vitamins to delay or reduce cancer risk. Finding out you have a harmful BRCA mutation indicates a higher risk for your siblings, too, so what you learn can affect multiple family members.

How much does it cost?
Some insurance companies cover BRCA testing, which can range in cost from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The National Cancer Institute urges people to contact their insurance companies to discuss cost before getting the test. For those without insurance, some genetic testing companies offer free or discounted pricing for individuals who meet certain medical or financial eligibility standards.

Who can help?
There are myriad resources for people considering BRCA gene testing, including the Cancer Information Service at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and many nonprofit organizations. Live and anonymous online chatting is available from the NIH weekdays from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET (5 a.m. to 8 p.m. PT at http://livehelp.cancer.gov. You can also call 1-800-4-CANCER.

Walk to Support Breast Cancer Awareness!

Join us for a day of fun for the whole family as we attend the Fifth Annual "Celebrate Your Princess" Breast Cancer Awareness Walk in Fulshear, TX on Saturday October 26th!

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, aside from skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), an estimated 230,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among women in the United States this year. Today there are about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors living in the United States. Early detection and prevention are critical. Celebrate Your Princess benefits the CHRISTUS St. Catherine Breast Cancer Awareness Fund, promoting community outreach, health, wellness and education.

We will be showcasing our latest and greatest hair loss, mastectomy and lymphedema solutions and will be available to answer any questions about our products and services.

Join us:

Saturday, October 26, 2013 @ 7:30 AM
Cross Creek Ranch
6450 Cross Creek Bend Lane
Fulshear , TX 77441

You can still sign up for the walk online, or registration is available the day of the walk at the event.

Walk for the cause, enjoy music and food while the kids play in the kid's zone bounce house, decorate pumpkins and much more!

Lymphedema Best Managed Through Exercise and Complete Decongestive Therapy

From Oncology Nurse Advisor

Self-care is an essential part of treating patients with lymphedema, with full-body exercise and complete decongestive therapy being the best ways to minimize symptoms and maintain quality of life.

Nearly 40% of breast cancer survivors suffer from lymphedema, which is a chronic condition that causes body limbs to swell from fluid buildup. It is a result of lymph node removal and radiation therapy. No cure exists, so patients with the condition must find ways to manage the symptoms throughout their lifetimes.

The research team reviewed published literature about lymphedema self-management to determine which practices were most effective in managing the condition. Full-body exercise, such as weight lifting and stretching, was found likely to be effective in minimizing lymphedema symptoms. Additionally, complete decongestive therapy, which is a comprehensive treatment that incorporates skin care, exercise, manual lymphatic drainage and bandaging of swollen limbs, also helps patients to effectively manage the condition.

“There's a sense of empowerment—of autonomy—that comes from meeting the challenge of living with lymphedema,” said Jane Armer, PhD, RN, RAAN, nursing professor at University of Missouri and an author of the studies. “Some breast cancer survivors say that they've become a new person after cancer because they met a challenge, and they like the stronger person they've become. The challenge of lymphedema is similar. It's something that is pervasive in every part of life. It takes problem solving and persistence to manage the condition without letting it interfere with their goals.”

Dr. Armer added, “Previous research suggests that, the earlier the interventions, the better the outcomes. If patients can learn how to successfully manage the condition early on, then they can continue those processes throughout their lives, and their outcomes will be better than those of [persons] who resist participating in self-care.”

Our team at Ricky Knowles Hair and Wellness is ready to assist you in managing your lymphedema.  We have a certified compression garment fitter who will trouble shoot and create a custom tailored plan to best treat and manage your lymphedema.  We also have certified massage therapists and treatment specialists who can assist you with MLD and limb bandaging.  Call us today at 713-623-4247 and set up a free consultation!

Tamoxifen Halves Breast Cancer Risk in High-Risk Women

Tamoxifen halves breast cancer risk in high-risk women A global study of women with inherited mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 found that tamoxifen could halve the risk for breast cancer in the contralateral (opposite-side) breast in these high-risk women.

Tamoxifen has been used for decades to treat breast cancer and has recently been shown to prevent breast cancers in many women. Until now, there has been limited information about whether it reduces breast cancer risk for women who are at the very highest level of risk with BRCA1 or BRCA2.

This study, led by the University of Melbourne and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Australia, involved about 2,500 women from Europe, North America, and Australia who have inherited mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 and who have been diagnosed with breast cancer since 1970. About one-third of these women were placed on tamoxifen.

Tamoxifen was taken by 24% of the 1,583 BRCA1 and by 52% of the BRCA2 mutation carriers after their first breast cancer diagnosis. Over 20,104 person-years of observation, 520 contralateral breast cancers occurred. The statistical analysis of 657 BRCA1 and 426 BRCA2 mutation carriers with 100 contralateral breast cancers found an adjusted hazard ratio estimate of 0.58 for BRCA1 carriers and 0.48 for BRCA2 carriers. This study was published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

"In the past, the only way of reducing breast cancer risk for these high-risk women was to do invasive surgery to remove their breasts and/or ovaries. For women who choose not to undergo such surgery, or who would prefer to delay surgery until they are older, tamoxifen could now be a viable alternative," said the lead author, Kelly-Anne Phillips, MD, of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. Her previous research had found that only one in five Australian women with a mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2 chose to undergo bilateral mastectomy to prevent cancer.

Co-author John Hopper, PhD, of the University of Melbourne, said, "In light of our findings, it is clear that women who have a mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2 should review their management plan with their specialist and re-discuss the options available to them to lower that risk."

Early Baldness May Signal Cancer Risk

Researchers in Australia are suggesting that men who lose their hair early in life are likely to suffer prostate cancer. Research among 10,000 adults uncovered that men with high levels of testosterone, the hormone that can facilitate hair loss, may be more vulnerable to cancerous tumors later in life. Experts at the Cancer Council of Victoria in Australia monitored 9,448 men who were taking part in a long-term health study.

The men, aged between 40 and 69 when the project began were asked to score how much hair they had lost at the age of 20 and at the age of 40. The results showed men who were mostly bald at 40 were significantly more likely to develop early-onset cancer, which for some could be in their fifties or sixties.

Both prostate cancer and hair loss are strongly age-related conditions that are considered to be hormone dependent. They found that baldness at the age of 40 might be a marker of increased risk of early-onset prostate cancer.

If you or a loved one have suffered from early male hair loss, make sure that you get a yearly health examination from your physician. Also speak with your physician about the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test and whether or not you would benefit from the screening.

For more information about hair loss solutions, call 713-623-4247. Our master stylist, Ricky Knowles and his team can help you find the right customized solution to fit your lifestyle.

I Just Finished Breast Cancer Treatment, Am I at Risk for Lymphedema?

Women who have undergone breast cancer surgery and/or radiotherapy are particularly at risk for developing lymphedema.  An individual who has had any type of breast cancer surgery or therapy is at risk of developing lymphedema. The National Lymphedema Networks 10 Precautions for Women at Risk of Lymphedema include the following:

1. Do not ignore any slight increase of swelling in the arm, hand, fingers, neck, or chest. Call your doctor. The sooner treatment begins, the more effective it will be.
   
2. Never allow an injection, needle stick, or blood pressure cuff in the affected arm. Breaks in the skin allow infection causing bacteria to enter. Pressure on the arm may damage existing lymphatics.
   
3. Avoid heavy lifting with the affected arm. Never carry heavy handbags with over-the-shoulder straps. Be especially careful lifting children and groceries. Do not lift more than 15 pounds at a time as excessive weight lifting can place a burden on the lymphatic system.
   
4. Do not wear tight jewelry or elastic bands on the affected arm/hand as these may obstruct the lymphatics.
   
5. Avoid injuries to the arm such as cat scratches, cuts, sunburn, insect bites as these may serve as a portal for bacteria to enter and cause infection.
   
6. Avoid extreme temperature changes when bathing, washing dishes. Stay out of the sauna and hot tub. Keep the arm protected from the sun. Temperature changes may lead to increased swelling.
   
7. Wear gloves while performing gardening or housework. This will prevent any type of minor injury that could result in increased swelling.
   
8. Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Light exercise is beneficial.
   
9. Wear well-fitted supportive bras that are not too tight and without wires. Avoid a heavy prosthesis. These may put extra pressure on the collarbone and shoulders.
   
10. Wear a compression sleeve in airplanes, as the change in pressure may  increase the risk of swelling. Remember to drink plenty of water.

For more information about breast cancer treatment and lymphedema, contact Kristen at 713-623-4247. She is a certified BOC, ABC custom garment fitter and can help you find the right compression garment for your needs.

Is it OK to exercise with lymphedema?

Yes, exercise is safe and beneficial for individuals with lymphedema, as long as a few standard guidelines are followed.

1. Always wear your compression bandages or garments when exercising – Compression garments help to move your lymph fluid from your limbs, trunk or face.  Without the garments, lymph fluid will collect in the affected area and increase swelling.
   
2. Get clearance from your doctor – As always, it’s a good idea to discuss your exercise goals with your physician and to make sure that you are in good overall health before starting an exercise program.
   
3. Start slowly – Your exercise program should include stretching, strengthening and endurance.  Some good examples of exercise programs are: Yoga, walking, swimming or cycling.  It is NOT advised to engage in high-speed activities like tennis, water skiing or football.
   
4. Hydrate – Hydration is super important to maintaining a healthy body, and even more important for people with lymphedema, as it aids in your body’s ability to expel lymph fluid.
   
5. Pay attention to your body – It is important that you feel good after exercising!  If you notice increased swelling, then you will want to choose a different activity for that day (i.e. swim instead of walk).

We want to assist you in reaching your exercise goals.  With our dedicated staff on your team, we can ensure that your custom compression garments will support you in your exercise program.

Let us know if you have any questions or concerns about your treatment options.  Our certified lymphedema specialists will be happy to answer your questions about how we can help you or someone you know who have lymphedema.  Call today at 713-623-4247, or email us at Kristen@hairandwellness.com

Is MLD massage right for me?

We are often asked this question from our lymphedema and edema patients. In most cases the answer is YES!  

MLD, or Manual Lymphatic Drainage helps your body's lymphatic system to drain and aids in removing wastes, toxins, bacteria and fluid build-up from your body's tissues.

The lymphatic system is a natural detoxification system. Your lymph nodes, in your armpits and groin, are responsible for filtering out waste, which plays an extremely important role in your immune system. The lymph system produces lymphocytes to kill bacteria, which helps you prevent and fight off infection. If MLD is applied correctly, it can have profound effects on your body. Having an MLD massage can help with the following:

• Lymphedema

• Muscoloskeletal problems

• Increase effectiveness of detox following a dietary detoxification (usually recommended by a Naturopathic doctor)

• Reduce pain signals sent to the brain

• Help post-surgical recovery

• Reduce scar formation

• Decrease general fatigue and "sluggishness"

If your lymphatic system has been compromised, due to a trauma or surgery, you may be at risk or have lymphedema. MLD is a proven primary tool in the treatment of this condition. Combined with compression therapy, MLD will help your lymphedema so you can achieve better mobility and a better quality of life.

Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. Manual lymphatic drainage is not an appropriate treatment if you have the following:

• Active cancer

• Inflammation (infection)

• Congestive Heart Failure

• Thrombosis

If you have additional questions about Manual Lymphatic Drainage, please call us at 713-623-4247 and book a consultation with one of our certified massage therapist. We will help you understand how MLD can improve your mobility and well-being.

Top 10 Lymphedema Tips for the Summer

1.  Increase fluid intake, mostly H2O
By increasing your daily water intake, you are telling your body that it has plenty of reserves and as a result it will release fluid out of your body.  If you are not a fan of drinking water, try flavored waters.  Crystal lite offers on-the-go packets, available in delicious flavors such as kiwi-strawberry, cherry pomegranate and raspberry peach.

2.  Try and stay as cool as possible
At times staying cool may seem impossible in 90+ degree weather.  Use fans to help circulate air conditioning while indoors.  Also store plastic bottles of water in the freezer for easy access to cold water when you travel outside.

3.  Avoid tight restrictive clothing
Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing.  Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than those made out of synthetic materials.

4.  Avoid severe sunburns

I like sunscreen products that good for sensitive skin, affordable, waterproof and offer UVA and UVB protection.  Banana Boat Baby Tear-Free Sunblock  SPF 50 is $10 for 8 ounces, Bull Frog Water Armor Sport 50+ is $9.99 for 6 ounces,  Beach Defense Water + Sun Barrier Lotion SPF 30 & 70 is $10.99 for 6.7, or Hydrosport Sunblock Spray SPF 30 by Aveeno is $8.99 for  5 ounces are all great options.

5.  Always use insect repellent
Protecting your skin from insect bites is another top priority during the warm summer months.  Avon carries a strong defense against mosquitos, gnats, ticks, sand flies and other biting insects.  Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin Aerosol Spray is $7.99 for 4 ounces of protection.  Another good option is Deep Woods Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent V, 25% DEET, 6 oz for $7.49.  This insect repellant is a reduced DEET product that works well.  It sprays upside down too!   Be sure that you apply insect repellent over your garment.

6.  Try and avoid high sodium foods
Restrict your daily salt intake to between 1,500 – 2,300 mg per day.  Also avoid processed foods as they typically contain a lot of sodium and preservatives.

7.  Protect your handsWhen working in the yard or gardening try and wear glove to protect your hand with upper body edema.  Choose a work glove with a suede leather palm for heavy-duty protection.

8.  Exercise Smart
When exercising outdoors try and do this not in the middle of the day, instead opt for early morning or after sunsets.  Exercise for shorter periods of time, take breaks at regular intervals and always wear compression on the affected limb, unless you are swimming, as water resistance acts as natural compression.

9.  Protect Your Feet
With lower body edema it is a good idea while at the beach wear water shoes as to avoid cuts and scrapes.

10.  Travel Prepared
If possible, talk to your doctor and get a prescription for antibiotics in case of infections.  Also, remember if you are flying, drink plenty of water and make sure you wear your day time compression garments, as the decreased air pressure in the airplane’s cabin may increase your swelling.

For more tips, contact Kristen, our BOC, ABC Certified compression garment fitter at kristen@hairandwellness.com.

Breast Friends Support Group Meet Up

The University of Texas MD Anderson Regional Care Center in the Bay Area is sponsoring the Breast Friends Support Group and Educational Program for surrounding communities. The next meeting is set for Wednesday, June 12 from 6-8 p.m at the CHRISTUS St. John West Building.

This month’s meeting will feature two guest speakers—Vicky Moore, OTR, CLT-LANA, lymphedema therapist at UTMB Victoria Lakes and Kristen Anderson-Knowles of Ricky Knowles Hair and Wellness. Vicky will lead a discussion on managing lymphedema, and Kristen will talk about lymphedema sleeves and other related garments for cancer patients.

The purpose of these meetings is to support, uplift and empower patients as they go through this challenging time. Meetings are open to all breast cancer patients, survivors and caregivers, regardless of where treatment is received, and snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Meetings take place in the West Building of St. John Hospital, located at 2035 Space Park Drive. No pre-registration is required. For more information contact meeting facilitator Diana Vasquez at (713) 745-2396.

The MD Anderson Regional Care Center in the Bay Area is located on the campus of CHRISTUS St. John Hospital at 18100 St. John Drive. As MD Anderson’s first comprehensive clinical cancer center to open outside of the Texas Medical Center, the Regional Care Center in the Bay Area provides medical and radiation oncology, APBI, chemotherapy infusion, laboratory and pharmacy services and nutritional counseling

For directions or to learn more about the MD Anderson Regional Care Center in the Bay Area visit www.MDAnderson.org/BayArea. For up to date news and information about the Center join the conversation on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MDAndersonBayArea.

From the Bay Area Citizen

Manage Lymphedema and Edema During the HOT Houston Summer

Lymphedema and chronic swelling patients have it especially rough during the HOT Houston summer. That’s why we work with our patients to offer cooler compression alternatives and tips.  I’m realistic when it comes to edema management during the summer and understand that patients need relief, not only from their edema, but from the heat.  So, I advocate using less aggressive garments during the heat of the day, and then wearing a lightweight night-time garment in order to keep the swelling under control.

Cooler Custom Garment Alternatives

One option for upper body edema is LympheDIVAS arm sleeves.  These arm sleeves are made with moisture-wicking technology, which pulls sweat away from the body.  They are also infused with aloe vera so that the arm stays moisturized and cool.  LympheDIVAS arm sleeves come in a variety of fun patterns and colors too.

A good option for a night time garment during the summer heat is the Tribute garment.  This garment is ideal for any type of edema (upper body lymphedema or lower body lymphedema).   It also has a wicking material and the foam multi-directionally pushes into the skin to move the fluid while you sleep.

Exercise Alternatives

Another thing I really encourage all of our patients to do is get into a pool.  Why?  Well, first, you do not have to wear garments and second, the water acts as a natural compression to the limbs.  It is also the best exercise for anyone as it takes the strain off of your joints.

If you would like more information about our custom garments, please call me at 713-623-4247.  We want to work with you to stay cooler in the summer heat while managing your lymphedema!

Have a question?  Contact me at kristen@hairandwellness.com