Which are the symptoms of Lipedema?

See the worst symptoms of affected by Lipedema here

Symptoms of Lipedema

Lipedema is a chronic condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat cells primarily in the lower body, such as the hips, thighs, and buttocks. It predominantly affects women and is often misdiagnosed or mistaken for obesity or lymphedema. Lipedema can cause significant physical and emotional distress, impacting a person's quality of life. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate management.

1. Enlarged and Disproportionate Fat Deposits

One of the hallmark symptoms of lipedema is the abnormal accumulation of fat cells in specific areas of the body. This fat distribution is typically symmetrical and occurs bilaterally in the lower extremities, sparing the feet. The affected areas often appear disproportionately larger compared to the upper body, creating a "column-like" or "tree-trunk" appearance. The fat deposits are typically soft and non-pitting, meaning they do not leave an indentation when pressed.

2. Tenderness and Sensitivity

Individuals with lipedema may experience tenderness and sensitivity in the affected areas. The skin may feel painful or bruised even with minimal pressure or touch. This sensitivity can make it uncomfortable to wear tight clothing or engage in activities that involve prolonged standing or walking.

3. Easy Bruising

Lipedema can cause easy bruising due to the fragility of blood vessels in the affected areas. Minor trauma or even gentle pressure can lead to the development of bruises, which may take longer to heal compared to bruises in unaffected areas.

4. Swelling and Edema

While lipedema is distinct from lymphedema, some individuals may develop secondary lymphedema as the condition progresses. This can result in swelling and edema in the affected limbs, particularly the lower legs and ankles. The swelling may worsen with prolonged standing or sitting and may improve with elevation or rest.

5. Pain and Discomfort

Many individuals with lipedema experience pain and discomfort in the affected areas. This pain can range from aching and throbbing to a constant, deep-seated discomfort. The pain may worsen with prolonged activity or pressure on the affected areas.

6. Limited Range of Motion

Lipedema can restrict the range of motion in the affected joints, particularly the hips and knees. This limitation can make it challenging to perform certain movements or activities, leading to decreased mobility and potential muscle weakness over time.

7. Emotional Impact

The physical changes associated with lipedema can have a significant emotional impact on individuals. Many people with lipedema may experience body image issues, low self-esteem, and depression. The condition can affect their social interactions, clothing choices, and overall quality of life.

If you suspect you may have lipedema or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and management of lipedema. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help alleviate symptoms, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.

Diseasemaps

suggestive clinical history in women after puberty: bilateral symmetrical fat deposit below the hip, saving the feet (negative Stemmer sign); non-depressible edema (negative Godet's sign), resistant to elevation of the limbs; painful affected areas, sensitive to palpation; increased capillary fragility, with spontaneous bruising

Alexandre

Excessive adipose tissue (fat) in hips, saddlebags, thighs, calves and sometimes upper and lower arms. There are different types and all or part of the previous list may be affected. The disease causes inflammation. The affected areas are sensitive to pressure and bruise easily. The worst symptom for me was the effects on my mobility. I had great difficulty standing and walking. This would the the symptom I would get rid of first.

Posted Jan 13, 2019 by Lipedemusikim 2500

Adipose tissue disorder affecting the lymphatic system causing pain swelling disfigurement abnormal growth of tissue inarms legs abdomen and buttocks

Posted Jan 14, 2019 by Mor 100

Painful, heavy limbs
Disproportionate limbs- can include cuffing at the ankles
Hands and feet are spared with lipoedema unless there's lymphedema at the same time.
Limbs are affected equally--both legs, both arms etc.
When weight is lost, its lost in unaffected areas--eg waist may get smaller while legs remain unchanged
The fat has a lumpy or grainy texture under the skin--can feel like grains of rice, frozen peas, or larger.
Skin has a dimpled, mattress appearance. Flesh is very soft and squishy, with little to no muscle definition.
Knock knees and flat feet are very common due to altered gait.

Posted Jan 14, 2019 by Candice 300

swelling, pain, bruising out of nowhere, pression, aching

Posted Jan 14, 2019 by Annatogu 1800

Easy bruses. Swollen ankles. Fat builds up round calfes and/or tights buttocks. Later stage sometime even arms get affected. Always bilateralt. Often pain and heaviness in legs. Legs can look like trunks.

Posted Jan 14, 2019 by Camilla 1700

swelling, increased legs and arms fat, pain

Posted Jan 17, 2019 by mkokkinouboege 2530