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Lipedema: cause, symptoms and everyday tips
Recognising, understanding and dealing with lipoedema
The hidden widespread disease lipoedema. A painful and debilitating disease that can have serious consequences for those affected. After all, 10-18 per cent of women aged 25-65 years suffer from it. However, despite its prevalence, this condition is barely recognised by the public and even medical experts overlook and misunderstand what happens to those affected. So what happens with lipoedema and what can sufferers do about it?
In people who suffer from lipoedema, the fat cells swell, especially on the legs or arms. The constant strain on the lymphatic vessels leads to degenerative
changes to the lymph vessels, which reduces the transport capacity
is reduced. As a result, fluid remains in the tissue and leads to
oedema. If this condition persists over a longer period of time, this leads to
the affected areas inflammation and collagen
collagen deposits. This collagen leads to an irreversible
proliferation of connective tissue, known as fibrosis.
These symptoms are often misinterpreted and confused with obesity or dismissed as a simple aesthetic problem.
It is also difficult to imagine what life with lipoedema can be like: From feeling invisible because doctors don't take it seriously, to discrimination from strangers when sufferers try to do everyday things, such as shopping in clothing shops. In this blog post, we also look at why those affected deserve more attention in order to get the help and understanding they so desperately need.
What are the causes of lipoedema?
The exact causes of lipoedema are not known, but there are factors that can increase the risk of developing lipoedema. These include:
Hormonal imbalance: This can be caused by fluctuations in hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.Genetic predisposition: Certain genes may be associated with an increased risk of developing lipoedema.
Age: Lipoedema is more common in middle-aged women than in men and children, probably because their hormones change during this time.
Obesity: Being overweight or having a higher than average body mass index (BMI) can increase the risk of developing lipoedema.
Sedentary lifestyle: Insufficient physical activity can contribute to the development of lipoedema.
Stress: Persistently high levels of stress can lead to an increased risk of lipoedema.
Diet: A diet high in fat, sugar and calories can increase the risk of developing lipoedema.
History of trauma: Previous injuries or trauma to the legs and hips can contribute to the development of lipoedema: Certain occupations that involve standing for long periods of time, such as in the hospitality industry, can increase the risk of developing lipoedema.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney disease and lymphoedema can increase the risk of developing lipoedema.
Medications: Certain medications, such as those used to treat cancer, can cause lipoedema.
What are the symptoms of lipoedema?
As a sufferer of lipoedema, it can be frustrating to experience the symptoms of a condition that is often misunderstood. However, early identification and understanding of the signs is crucial in order to take appropriate action to alleviate the discomfort.
A feeling of heaviness in the legs or arms: A frequent feeling of fatigue in the affected areas.
Visible and palpable fat deposits and swelling in the legs, arms and buttocks without corresponding weight gain.
Tenderness in the affected areas: pain in the legs, arms and buttocks, especially when pressure is applied and touched.
Tendency to bruising and skin changes such as dimpling, similar to an orange peel.
No change despite exercise or dieting: Stubborn fat deposits that do not disappear despite regular exercise and dieting.
Limited freedom of movement and skin irritation in the affected area, often caused by swelling and pressure.
Identifying and understanding the symptoms of lipoedema is the first step towards improving your quality of life. If you recognise yourself in the symptoms described, seek a consultation with a specialist in phlebology or lymphology to obtain a well-founded diagnosis.
The stages of lipoedema
Lipoedema can be divided into three stages based on its anatomical appearance and the pressure findings can be divided into three stages can be categorised. The severity of the symptoms or the volume of the oedema of the oedema does not matter.
Stage I: smooth skin surface, thickened subcutaneous fatty tissue, fine nodular fat structure.
Stage II: uneven skin surface, rough, nodular fat structure.
Stage III: rougher and harder skin surface and subcutaneous tissue, large lobulated deformed fat flaps.
The lipoedema pain can be so severe, especially in stage III, that those affected that those affected are restricted in their mobility and thus also in their everyday life are significantly restricted.
Everyday tips for lipoedema
Everyday life with lipoedema can be challenging, but there are some strategies that can help to manage the symptoms.
Wear comfortable clothing: Lipoedema is a fat distribution disorder that leads to an uneven accumulation of fat in the legs. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not constrict or put extra pressure on the affected areas.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise is important to promote circulation and improve mobility. Choose activities that strengthen your muscles and support lymph flow, such as swimming or cycling.
Watch your diet: A conscious diet can help reduce inflammation and control lipoedema. Avoid foods high in sugar and fat and instead focus on a diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables and lean protein.
Use compression garments: Wearing compression stockings or trousers can help reduce swelling and alleviate the symptoms of lipoedema. They also provide support and improve the appearance of the legs.
Seek regular medical advice: Lipoedema is a complex condition and individualised treatment is crucial. Medical advice from a specialist can help to optimise your treatment and improve your quality of life.
