True or False? Myths about Lipoedema and what you need to know
Lipoedema is a widely misunderstood condition, often mistaken for obesity or simple weight gain. Due to this lack of awareness, there are many myths about lipoedema, making it harder for individuals to get the right diagnosis and treatment. In this blog, we’ll challenge some of the most common myths and highlight the truth behind them.
Myth 1: Lipoedema Is Just Obesity
False: Lipoedema is not simply obesity. It is a chronic fat disorder caused by inflammation of the fat cells, not just overeating or lack of exercise. The fat accumulation, particularly in the legs, hips, and arms, is painful, bruises easily, and does not respond to diet and exercise the same way typical body fat does. Many individuals with lipoedema experience frustration because traditional weight loss methods do not reduce the fat in the affected areas.
Myth 2: Lipoedema Only Affects Overweight People
False: Lipoedema affects people of all body sizes, not just those who are overweight. While it may be more noticeable in those who gain weight, even people with a healthy BMI can develop lipoedema. The condition is often characterised by an uneven fat distribution, where the lower body is larger than the upper body. Many slim individuals with lipoedema remain undiagnosed because their condition is mistaken for a normal body shape variation.
Myth 3: Lipoedema Is Caused by a Poor Diet
False: Lipoedema is not caused by poor diet, but what you eat can affect symptoms. The real cause is inflammation in the fat cells, not overeating or unhealthy food. While a poor diet can worsen inflammation, even people who eat healthily can develop lipoedema. An anti-inflammatory diet may help manage symptoms, but it will not cure or eliminate lipoedema fat.
Myth 4: Lipoedema and Lymphoedema Are the Same
False: Lipoedema and lymphoedema are two distinct conditions. Lipoedema is a fat disorder, while lymphoedema is a lymphatic system disorder that causes fluid retention and swelling. However, in some advanced cases, lipoedema can develop into lipo-lymphoedema, where both fat accumulation and lymphatic dysfunction occur. This is why early diagnosis and proper management are critical.
Myth 5: Exercise Can Eliminate Lipoedema Fat
False: While regular exercise is beneficial for overall health, exercise alone cannot remove lipoedema fat. Unlike typical body fat, lipoedema fat does not respond to exercise the same way. However, low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and cycling can help improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and support lymphatic drainage, making symptoms more manageable.
Myth 6: Lipoedema Only Affects Women
False: Lipoedema is most common in women, but it can also affect men, although it is rarer. When men do develop lipoedema, it is often linked to hormonal imbalances or other underlying health conditions. Because lipoedema is most commonly associated with women, men may find it more challenging to get an accurate diagnosis.
Myth 7: Lipoedema Skin Is Just Cellulite and Can Be Treated the Same Way
False: Lipoedema skin is often mistaken for cellulite, but they are not the same. While both can cause uneven fat distribution and lumpy texture, cellulite is a skin issue, whereas lipoedema is a fat disorder. Cellulite treatments such as creams, laser therapies, or massages do not work for lipoedema because they do not address the root cause of the condition—fat cell inflammation and abnormal fat distribution.
Myth 8: There Is No Treatment for Lipoedema
False: Although there is no cure for lipoedema, there are several effective treatments to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life. These treatments include:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): A specialised massage technique that helps reduce swelling and improve circulation.
- Compression Therapy: Wearing compression garments can help support the lymphatic system and reduce pain.
- Anti-Inflammatory Diets: Reducing processed foods and increasing nutrient-rich foods may help manage symptoms by reducing inflammation.
- Liposuction for Lipoedema: In more advanced cases, tumescent liposuction can effectively remove lipoedema fat, offering long-term relief.
Myth 9:Lipoedema is a progressive disorder
Truth: Contrary to popular belief, lipoedema is not inherently progressive. The progression of symptoms, such as pain, depends on various factors. As long as an individual’s weight remains stable, the condition typically remains stable as well.
Myth 10: Lipoedema is primarily an oedema problem
Truth: There is no scientific evidence supporting the idea that lipoedema includes oedema or lymphatic insufficiency. Consequently, decongestive lymphatic therapy is not an appropriate treatment for patients with pure lipoedema.
Myths about Lipoedema: A final word
Myths about lipoedema can delay proper diagnosis and treatment. It’s essential to understand the real facts about lipoedema to ensure those affected can receive the support they need. If you suspect you have lipoedema, it’s important to consult a specialist familiar with the condition for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://www.amato.com.br/tag/lipedema/
https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/womens-health/lipoedema
