Are lipedema and obesity related?

2 days ago

Lipedema and obesity both involve fat accumulation, but they are distinct conditions with different causes and treatment protocols. It is possible to have both conditions at the same time, but a person can have one without the other. Having obesity increases the risk of developing lipedema, but does not directly cause it.Lipedema can be more challenging to diagnose if a person also has obesity.Lipedema is a chronic (long term), progressive condition in which fat accumulates in the legs and feet. It typically affects people assigned female at birth more than those assigned male. Lipedema does not typically respond to weight loss methods, and treatments include wearing compression garments and undergoing lymphatic drainage massage.Obesity is a complex, chronic condition in which fat accumulates throughout the body, not just in the lower extremities. Its causes may be metabolic, environmental, and genetic. Obesity typically improves with dietary and lifestyle changes. It can cause serious health complications, such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.The table below summarizes the key differences between lipedema and obesity.LipedemaObesityWho it affectsmostly femalesmales and femalesPrevalence6.5% to 11% of US femalesone-third of US adultsFat distributionsymmetrical fat distribution in the hips, abdomen, and legs, that is 'nodular' or lumpythroughout the bodyPainpain, tenderness, and heaviness in the affected limbspossible pain caused by stress on the joints and inflammationCausesgenetic and hormonal factors—it may begin and worsen around puberty, pregnancy, and menopausemetabolic, environmental, and genetic factorsDiagnosismedical history, physical exam, no definitive testbody mass index (BMI) calculationTreatmentcompression garments, lymphatic drainage massage, specialized liposuction, pain management medicationsdiet and lifestyle changesImpact on daily lifephysical, psychological, and emotional physical, psychological, and emotional It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between lipedema and obesity. A person concerned about fat accumulation in their lower body may suspect they have lipedema, particularly if traditional weight loss methods have not helped. Typically, lipedema fat does not affect the hands and feet. Lipedema fat stops abruptly at the ankle creating a cuff effect. A person with lipedema may also experience pain, tenderness, and easy bruising.It is a good idea to discuss these symptoms with a doctor, who may ask about the person's family medical history and perform a physical exam. Diagnosing lipedema requires eliminating the possibility of other conditions, including obesity. The Lipedema Foundation provides a patient self-advocacy guide. It supports people who suspect they may have lipedema and those who have received a diagnosis to navigate their healthcare journey.Although lipedema and obesity require different treatment approaches, people with either or both conditions can benefit from lifestyle measures, such as:eating a nutritious diet that does not provide more energy than the body needsgetting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per weekavoiding long periods of inactivity»FIND CARE:Find a vascular specialist in your area today. Learn moreWhat causes heavy aching legs?Medicare and liposuction: What to knowHow much should I weigh for my height and age?What are the treatments for obesity?

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The Independent

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The Independent

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The Guardian

6 hours ago

The Guardian

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