It's not "normal" fat. Lipedema is a chronic medical condition characterized by a symmetric buildup of adipose tissue, or fat, in the legs and arms. Lipedema is common but not diagnosed as much as it should be. It can cause pain, swelling, and easy bruising. Lipedema is sometimes accompanied by the texture of rice, peas, or walnuts just beneath the surface of the skin. Some patients with lipedema have no pain, while others can experience severe pain. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle pain, or easy bruising.
Lipedema is most common and almost exclusive in females, but can very rarely occur in men. The cause of lipedema is not well known, but seems to have some association to puberty and hormonal changes as seen in pregnancy and menopause.
Lipedema is not a form of obesity, nor is it lymphedema. Fat associated with obesity occurs all throughout the body and tends to correlate with diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Fat associated with lipedema occurs in the limbs without affecting the hands and feet. Typically someone with lipedema does not have diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure. Additionally, lymphedema typically only has swelling on one side of the body which includes swelling of the hands and feet. Lymphedema is easily diagnosed with imaging or genetic testing unlike lipedema.
Many patients suffering with lipedema do not get properly diagnosed due to the uncertainty around this condition. Lipedema patients may also experience an impact to their quality of life that leads to a lack of energy, feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, and eating disorders. Some things that help patients that are struggling with lipedema include improving lymphatic flow, reducing inflammation, managing pain, helping your body deal with lipedema, and getting emotional support. Daily light to moderate exercise along with an anti-inflammatory diet are typically recommended for those with lipedema.
