Understanding Lipedema

What is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by an abnormal accumulation of fat cells. This condition predominantly affects women and can lead to significant discomfort, mobility issues, and emotional distress. Despite its prevalence, patients and physicians often overlook or misdiagnose the condition.

Lipedema vs. Lymphedema

While they may seem similar, they are very distinct conditions. Lipedema involves the abnormal buildup of fat cells, while lymphedema results from an abnormal accumulation of lymphatic fluid. Lipedema typically affects both legs symmetrically, whereas lymphedema often starts in one limb and can include the feet. Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

What Are the Symptoms of Lipedema?

The condition presents several distinctive signs and symptoms, including:

• Symmetrical swelling in the legs and sometimes arms, though it spares the feet and hands.
• Painful fat deposits that are tender to touch.
• Easy bruising.
• A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the affected limbs.
• Skin texture changes, such as a dimpled or “cottage cheese” appearance.
• Difficulty losing weight in the affected areas despite diet and exercise.

Why Does Lipedema Hurt?

It can be painful due to the increased pressure on surrounding tissues, including nerves and blood vessels. The condition often leads to tenderness and sensitivity in the affected areas. Additionally, inflammation and compromised blood flow can contribute to your discomfort and pain.

How is Lipedema Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive physical examination and medical history review. Our key diagnostic steps include:

• Clinical assessment of your symptoms and medical history.
• Examination of the affected areas to identify typical patterns of fat distribution.

What Are the Risk Factors for Lipedema?

While the exact cause is unknown, there are several identified risk factors including:

• Gender: It is much more likely to affect women. Lipedema is rare in men.
• Genetics: A family history with the condition increases your risk.
• Hormonal changes: The use of birth control pills/hormone replacement therapy, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause also elevate your risk.

How Do You Treat Lipedema?

Treatment of Lipedema requires a multidisciplinary approach that may include:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): This is a specialized massage technique to reduce swelling and improve lymphatic flow.
• Compression Therapy: Wearing compression garments can help reduce swelling and support affected areas.
• Liposuction: Specifically designed liposuction techniques, such as water-assisted or tumescent liposuction, can effectively remove abnormal fat deposits.
• Exercise and Diet: Tailored exercise programs and diets help manage symptoms and improve health.
• Pain Management: Medications and therapies can help alleviate pain and discomfort.

Can Lipedema Go Away Without Treatment?

It does not go away without treatment. In fact, the condition tends to worsen over time if left alone. For that reason, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing symptoms and preventing progression.

Can Lipedema Be Cured?

Currently, researchers have not found a cure. However, effective treatment can significantly reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent further complications.

While we do not manage all aspects of Lipedema at Southlake Vein Care, we are able to recognize the signs and symptoms, make the diagnosis, and start our patients on the path of managing their condition.

If you have lipedema, we can help. Request a consultation online or call us at 972-378-5347.

OUR INSURANCE CARRIERS

OUR CERTIFICATIONS AND AFFILIATIONS