5 Signs You Might Have Lipoedema

June is Lipoedema Awareness Month, a timely opportunity to shine a light on this often-misunderstood condition.

Lipoedema is a chronic disorder that affects the way fat tissue develops and behaves, almost exclusively in women. The underlying pathology involves an abnormal accumulation of subcutaneous fat, particularly in the lower body, which is thought to be driven by hormonal factors and possibly a genetic predisposition.

This tissue is not simply excess fat from weight gain; it is structurally and functionally different, often accompanied by inflammation, increased fragility of blood vessels, and changes in the connective tissue.

Lipoedema is frequently mistaken for obesity or lymphoedema, which can delay appropriate care. Early recognition is crucial for effective management and improved quality of life.

Here are five signs you might have lipoedema:

#1 Disproportionate Accumulation in Legs and Sometimes Arms

Lipoedema typically causes a symmetrical build-up of tissue in the legs, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the upper arms, while the feet and hands are usually spared. This can lead to a noticeable disproportion between your upper and lower body, often with a “cuff” or ring of tissue around the ankles or wrists.

#2 Persistent Swelling and Heaviness

Unlike general weight gain, the swelling in lipoedema does not respond to elevation, diet, or exercise. Affected limbs often feel heavy, achy, or uncomfortable, and the sensation of heaviness can make movement more difficult over time.

#3 Pain and Sensitivity

The affected areas are frequently painful or tender to touch, and may feel cold. Many people with lipoedema also report a sensation of aching or discomfort, even without pressure.

#4 Easy Bruising

Lipoedema tissue tends to bruise easily, often with little or no apparent injury. This is due to the fragility of the blood vessels in the affected tissue.

#5 Skin Changes and Nodular Texture

The skin overlying lipoedema tissue may appear dimpled, uneven, or “floppy.” On palpation, the tissue can feel lumpy, with nodules ranging in size from rice grains to walnuts. As the condition progresses, large folds of skin and tissue may develop, and mobility can be affected.

What Can You Do If You Have Lipoedema?

If you recognise these signs, you are not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to support your health and manage lipoedema. The first step is to seek a knowledgeable healthcare practitioner for a proper diagnosis, as lipoedema is often mistaken for other conditions.

While there is no cure, a combination of lifestyle strategies and medical interventions can make a significant difference.

• Healthy eating patterns: An anti-inflammatory, low carb approach may help reduce symptoms and support metabolic health. While diet alone cannot reverse lipoedema, many people find that these changes can help with energy levels and overall wellbeing.
• Regular physical activity: Gentle exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling can help maintain mobility, reduce discomfort, and support lymphatic flow.
• Compression therapy: Specially fitted compression garments can provide relief from pain and heaviness, and may help slow progression.
• Manual lymphatic drainage: This specialised massage technique can reduce pain and swelling for some people, and may be beneficial as part of a broader management plan.
• Sleep and stress management: Prioritising good quality sleep and finding effective ways to manage stress are vital. Both poor sleep and chronic stress can increase inflammation in the body, which may worsen symptoms of lipoedema. Simple practices such as regular sleep routines, mindfulness, gentle movement, or relaxation exercises can be helpful.
• GLP-1 medication: Some people with lipoedema may benefit from GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, which are primarily used for diabetes and weight management. These medications can sometimes help with appetite regulation and metabolic health, but their impact on lipoedema tissue itself is still being studied and they may have an anti-inflammatory effect.
• Surgical options: In selected cases, procedures such as tumescent liposuction may be considered to remove lipoedema tissue and improve mobility and comfort. Surgery should only be performed by experienced practitioners with expertise in lipoedema care.

With love and great health

Dr Lucy and Dr Mary XX 
 

Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy are the founders of Real Life Medicine. They help women who have been on every diet under the sun, optimise their health and achieve long lasting weight loss without feeling miserable or deprived.

They do this with their 3 step framework that

• Improves metabolism
• Develops mindset skills
• Provides tools to implement it easily into busy lives

With this comes increased energy, vitality and confidence.

You can avoid chronic disease and stop living life on the sidelines!