Lipoedema: The Condition Behind Painful, Swollen Legs?
Lipoedema is a chronic vascular condition that affects up to 12 % of the population worldwide. It is caused by abnormal fat buildup, primarily in the lower body, affecting mostly women. It leads to symptoms like pain, swelling, and a disproportionate appearance. While the exact cause is still unclear, recent research suggests that with the right diet and exercise, it is possible to manage the condition. Keep reading to discover more about lipoedema, its causes, and the treatments that can help improve quality of life.
What Causes Lipoedema?
Lipoedema is a chronic condition that leads to abnormal fat accumulation, mainly in the lower body (legs and hips) and arms. While its exact cause is unclear, several factors may contribute:
- Hormonal Influence. It primarily affects women and often develops during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, suggesting a link to estrogen.
- Genetics. Lipoedema often runs in families, indicating a hereditary component.
- Lymphatic Dysfunction. Some studies suggest issues with the lymphatic system may play a role.
- Inflammation & Microvascular Dysfunction . Recent studies associate lipoedema with chronic inflammation affecting fat cells. This inflammation can lead to increased fat accumulation, pain, impaired lymphatic function, and fibrosis (hardening of fat tissue). Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines suggest that lipoedema is not just a fat disorder but also an inflammatory condition.
- Metabolic Factors. Though not caused by obesity, metabolic changes may be involved.
Why is lipoedema misdiagnosed?
People may confuse lipoedema with other conditions. It may look like cellulitis or obesity, leading to mistaken treatments such as the use of anti-cellulite body lotions, cosmetic treatments or early surgery which will not improve the symptoms, actually generating frustration, stress, anxiety and unnecessary expenses for patients.
What are lipoedemas´s symptoms?
Most common known lipoedema´s symptoms are:
- Swelling in both legs
- Difference in size of feet and the upper part of your legs
- Pain when pressure is applied
- Heaviness feeling
- Fat build (it worsens as the condition progresses, fat might grow also in arms )
- Loose skin (skin pockets/skin large folds)
- Bumps under the skin (noticeable to the touch)
- Fatigue
- Noticeable asymmetry between the lower and the upper part of your body.
- Bruise easily
What are the recommended treatments for lipoedema?
While there is no cure for lipoedema, several treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Compression Therapy & Massage. Wearing compression garments and manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
- Exercise, Diet & Hydration . Low-impact activities like swimming and walking support mobility, while an anti-inflammatory diet (avoiding sugar, processed foods, alcohol, and reducing salt) may help manage symptoms. Staying well-hydrated is also essential, as it supports lymphatic function and reduces fluid retention.
- Medications & Supplements Medications & Supplements – Some patients benefit from anti-inflammatory medications and supplements like omega-3s or flavonoids. Additionally, certain supplements may help manage lipoedema
Selenium – A deficiency in selenium may affect the immune system and increase oxidative stress, which plays a role in lymphoedema, lipoedema, and obesity risk.
Vitamin A – This vitamin might help reduce adipose (fat) deposits.
Olive Leaf Extract – Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, olive leaf extract may help with symptoms.
Omega-3s or flavonoids. Check with your GP before supplementing.
- Liposuction . Specialised liposuction techniques can remove lipoedema fat, relieve pain, and improve mobility in severe cases. Recent research suggests that reducing inflammation levels before surgery improves its effectiveness and recovery.
- Psychological Support & Community. Since lipoedema can impact mental health, seeking therapy or joining forums and online support groups can help individuals connect, share experiences, and access valuable information from others worldwide who are living with the condition. Additionally, many countries have lymphoedema and lipoedema associations that offer support. If you are in the UK, you can join Lipoedema UK for guidance and resources.
- Self-Care & Skincare. Proper skincare and self-care routines help prevent complications and improve overall well-being.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent progression and enhance your quality of life, so if you have any symptom ask a Lipoedema specialist.
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.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212877822002095
https://www.lipedema.net/vitamins-supplements.htmlhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9710418/
