What is Lipoedema? Understanding the Basics
What Is Lipoedema?
What is Lipoedema? Lipoedema is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet many remain unaware of its existence. It is a chronic, progressive disease that is characterized by the accumulation of fat cells in the legs, thighs, and hips, often leading to a disproportionate body shape. Despite being a relatively common condition, it is often misdiagnosed or mistaken for obesity, which can delay proper treatment and management. In this article, we will explore the basics of this chronic condition including its definition, causes, symptoms, and diagnosis.
Defining Lipoedema
This is a chronic condition that results in the abnormal accumulation of fat cells in the subcutaneous tissue(the deepest layer of your skin) of the lower extremities, primarily affecting the hips, thighs, and legs. This accumulation of fat cells can cause the legs to become disproportionately larger than the rest of the body, resulting in a “pear-shaped” appearance. In some cases, the arms may also be affected.
Lipoedema is a non-inflammatory disorder that is not caused by excess weight or overeating. It is not uncommon for patients to maintain a healthy weight and a balanced diet, yet still experience the symptoms of . Despite this, it is often misdiagnosed or dismissed as obesity, which can lead to significant physical and psychological consequences for patients.
Causes of Lipoedema
The exact cause is not yet fully understood, and there is ongoing research to determine the underlying mechanisms that lead to the condition. However, some factors are believed to contribute to the development of lipoedema, including hormonal imbalances, genetics, and trauma.
Hormonal imbalances, particularly those related to female hormones, are thought to play a significant role in the development of lipoedema. The condition is much more prevalent in women, with estimates suggesting it affects up to 11% of the female population. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause have been identified as possible triggers for the onset of this condition.
Genetics may also play a role in the development of lipoedema, as the condition tends to run in families. Some studies have identified specific genetic markers that may be associated with the development of lipoedema, although more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Finally, trauma or injury to the affected area may trigger the development of lipoedema. This is particularly true for cases that have a sudden onset, with symptoms appearing after a significant injury or surgery. However, it is worth noting that trauma or injury is not always a factor in the development of lipoedema.
Symptoms:
The most common symptom of lipoedema is the abnormal accumulation of fat cells in the lower extremities, resulting in a disproportionate body shape. The legs, hips, and thighs may become significantly larger than the rest of the body, with a distinct “pear-shaped” appearance. In some cases, the arms may also be affected, although this is less common.
Lipoedema is typically a symmetrical condition, with both legs affected equally. The condition may worsen over time, with fat cells continuing to accumulate and the affected areas becoming more prominent. Patients may experience pain, tenderness, and bruising in the affected areas, as well as a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the legs.
In severe cases, lipoedema can significantly impact a patient’s mobility and quality of life. Patients may experience difficulty with walking, standing for long periods, or performing everyday activities. Additionally, the disproportionate body shape caused by this condition can lead to significant psychological distress and body image issues.
Diagnosis:
The diagnosis is based on a combination of physical examination and medical history. There is no specific test or imaging technique that can definitively diagnose the condition. However, certain diagnostic criteria can help healthcare providers identify the condition.
One of the primary diagnostic criteria for this condition is the presence of disproportionate fat accumulation in the legs, thighs, and hips. Patients with lipoedema may have a distinct “pear-shaped” appearance, with a larger lower body compared to their upper body. The condition is also typically symmetrical, with both legs affected equally.
Another important diagnostic criterion is the lack of swelling in the affected areas. Patients with this chronic condition do not typically have oedema or swelling in the legs, which distinguishes the condition from other types of leg swelling, such as lymphedema.
Finally, patients may experience pain or tenderness in the affected areas. This pain is typically described as a “burning” or “aching” sensation and may worsen with prolonged standing or physical activity.
Once a healthcare provider suspects the condition based on these diagnostic criteria, they may perform additional tests to rule out other conditions. These tests may include blood work, imaging studies, or a referral to a specialist, such as a lymphedema therapist or endocrinologist.
Treatments
There is currently no cure for this condition and treatment options are aimed at managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Treatment plans for typically involve a combination of lifestyle modifications, compression therapy, and surgical intervention.
Lifestyle modifications may include a healthy diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health. However, it is worth noting that diet and exercise alone cannot reverse the effects of lipoedema or eliminate the abnormal fat accumulation.
Compression therapy, such as wearing compression garments or using pneumatic compression devices, can help alleviate symptoms such as pain and swelling. These devices work by applying pressure to the affected areas, improving circulation and reducing fluid build-up. See Solidea’s Therapeutic Line and shop our Relax 140 Graduated compression knee-high stockings for post-operative oedema.
In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove excess fat cells and improve mobility and body shape. Liposuction is the most common surgical procedure used to treat lipoedema, with several techniques available to achieve optimal results.
Lipoedema is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, the condition remains underdiagnosed and often mistaken for obesity. Understanding the basics of this condition, including its definition, causes, symptoms, and diagnosis, can help healthcare providers identify and treat the condition more effectively.
While there is currently no cure for this condition, treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, patients who suffer from this condition can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Increased awareness and education about lipoedema are essential to improving diagnosis rates and promoting effective treatment options.
Shop more of Solidea’s Therapeutic Line and treat lipoedema with our Relax Unisex 140 Open Toe Graduated compression stockings. Shop a pair today.