Lipedema
If you have been with me for a while then you know my ordinary focus of blog posts is autoimmune disease, cooking healthy, and Hawai’i.
But last year I was diagnosed with lipedema and I have been spending time learning about this disease so I thought I would share.
Lipedema
A chronic progressive connective tissue disease
Characterized by abnormal adipose tissue, mostly seen on the legs and arms
Some reports estimate 11% of women have this disease - it doesn’t seem to affect men
Often onset begins in puberty, and often getting worse during pregnancy or menopause
Diagnosis can be difficult
It is NOT the same as regular fat or obesity
Does not affect your hands or feet
Does not respond to regular diet and exercise
There are different stages and types of this disease
Found in women with flat feet
Symptoms
Fat buildup in a symmetrical way around entire legs
Fat ‘handle’ on inside of knees
Causes legs to feel heavy
Often causes varicose veins
Impact range of motion and comfort doing everyday tasks
Legs bruise easily
Legs can be painful to touch
Swelling from ankles up is common
Often women will have a BMI > 35
This disease leads to embarrassment on how one looks and feelings of depression are common
Joint issues and muscle flexibility and strength can be impacted
Treatments
There is no true cure for this disease
Consuming a low inflammation diet helps prevent it from worsening
Incorporate light to moderate exercise/movement every day for 30-45 minutes
Water exercise is IDEAL as the heaviness of the extremities is reduced
Women can wear compression hose to help with the discomfort and heavy feeling
Getting a lymphatic drainage massage to legs helps move excess fluids
The best way to reverse the disease is to get liposuction - but only under the care of a trained surgeon familiar with the disease and the difference from regular adipose tissue
Note that lipedema is NOT the same as lymphedema. Lymphedema is a swelling on one side of the body (asymmetrical) and will include the hands and feet.
A reminder I am not a doctor but am sharing my own health journey in the hopes of helping others.
