Foreword
Do you suffer from lipoedema or lymphoedema and are wondering how you can manage your everyday life better? In our interview, Beatrice, medically certified product expert at Venen Engel and a sufferer herself, shares her personal story. Immerse yourself in the experiences of a like-minded person and find out first-hand how compression stockings can also provide you with valuable support for lipoedema and lymphoedema.

Beatrice: As a sufferer, it is very difficult to make sure that even those around you understand that living with lipoedema and lymphoedema is a new challenge every day. The pain you experience is sometimes unbearable, so you even have to take painkillers to get through the day. Others can neither perceive nor see this. Some days are good, especially when it's colder. On other days, feet and legs swell so much that you can hardly stand. It's no different with sedentary jobs. Simple things like shopping, putting on shoes, even choosing socks are part of everyday life. The psyche is constantly under strain because you have to compensate all the time. Movement is often restricted. And sometimes it even hurts just to touch your thigh. This sensitivity is also reflected in the mind. Anyone who suffers from constant pain will understand this. You suffer in silence and try to smile at the same time. At the same time, you are desperately looking for solutions that will restore your quality of life.

Venen Engel: When were you diagnosed and how did you react?

Beatrice: My battle has been going on for 20 years. It started with my first abdominal operation. At first I didn't take it too seriously myself. At first I just thought, "Yes, I need to lose weight." That's what the doctor told me: "You're obese, lose weight." The extent and the difficulties crept up over the years and became much worse. Despite exercise and changing my diet. I did lose weight, but the deposits kept coming back. So the battle continues.

Beatrice: My battle has been going on for 20 years. It started with my first abdominal operation. At first I didn't take it too seriously myself. At first I just thought, "Yes, I need to lose weight." That's what the doctor told me: "You're obese, lose weight." The extent and the difficulties crept up over the years and became much worse. Despite exercise and changing my diet. I did lose weight, but the deposits kept coming back. So the battle continues.

Venen Engel: Do you have experience of using compression stockings to treat your lipoedema?

Beatrice: Yes, you take every straw you can get. They also help to a certain extent.

Venen Engel: Can you tell us about how compression stockings have helped you to alleviate the symptoms of your lipoedema and lymphoedema?

Beatrice: I use them when I have to fly and am travelling south. Otherwise, I put them on when I have to stand for a long time, e.g. at a trade fair, or sit in the office all day. Otherwise I wouldn't be able to cope with the pain and swelling for days afterwards. Everyday life is definitely easier with compression stockings.

Venen Engel: What were the most important considerations for you when choosing compression stockings for your lipoedema and lymphoedema?

Beatrice: The fit: They shouldn't be too tight or too wide. They must not cut in. The quality: I don't want dry skin and I don't want to sweat in them. And comfort: I don't want to feel them if possible. A nice look is a goodie, so that you can still wear a dress in summer.

Venen Engel: What type of compression stockings do you use?

Beatrice: The ones you usually get. I should wear thigh-high stockings, but I only wear knee-high stockings.

Venen Engel: Do you have any experience with medical compression stockings or special versions for summer?

Beatrice: I have tried different stockings and was never really satisfied. The ones I have are for both summer and winter.

Venen Engel: How long do you wear your compression stockings every day and does the time you wear them vary depending on the time of day or activity?

Beatrice: Depending on the weather and my plans. Sometimes all day. But usually only when absolutely necessary.

Venen Engel: How do you find putting on your compression stockings? Are there any tips or tricks you can share?

Beatrice: It's a bit awkward. A donning aid helps a lot. There is definitely a good trick for taking them off: you shouldn't take them off like normal socks. Instead, you take the top of the sock in both hands, hold it firmly and simply slip it over your foot. As if you wanted to pull them inside out.

Venen Engel: What advice would you give to other people who are confronted with lipoedema or lymphoedema or similar conditions?

Beatrice: First and foremost, you should talk openly about it with your loved ones. Communicate what everyday life is like in reality and when you are in pain and when you are well. Ask for understanding. Join a community. Exchange ideas with other sufferers. Above all, find out about the various solutions and find your own way to improve your quality of life. Don't give up under any circumstances!

Venen Engel: Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Beatrice: There is not ONE solution. Because there is not ONE symptom. Take time for yourself and your body, because it is the home of your soul.

Venen Engel: Apart from compression stockings, what helps you in everyday life to relieve the pain?

Beatrice: I bought the Venen Engel 8 Premium two years ago because my physiotherapist had no more capacity and I didn't have any more prescriptions. I use it almost every day and it has drastically improved my symptoms. I also take various herbs that support me from the inside.