Differences Between Lymphedema And Lipedema
February 2, 2023
Although Lymphedema and Lipedema affect the upper and lower Limbs, but both of them are two separate Medical disorders. Lymphedema and Lipedema are typically treated interchangeably and with good reason. Lymphedema and Lipedema, however are completely different diseases and two separate entities. According to the Lipedema foundation, Lipedema is a fairly prevalent problem of fat that is frequently confused with Obesity. Insufficient Lymph Fluid evacuation leads to swelling in Lymphedema, a disease of the Lymphatic system. In it’s early stages, Lipedema does not affect the Lymphatic system, but the symptoms may be comparable.
LIPEDEMA | LYMPHEDEMA |
Abnormal deposition of Fatty deposits in Legs and sometimes in Arms | Lymphatic System Disorder |
Mostly seen in Women | No Gender Specificity |
Starts at Puberty, Pregnancy or Menopause | Can occur at any Age |
Both Limbs are affected symmetrically | Usually affects one Arm or Leg |
Starts in the Hips / Thighs and progresses down. Feet are not affected until late | Starts at the Feet and progresses upward |
Can pinch Skin over Dorsum of 2nd Toe | Cannot pinch Skin over Dorsum of 2nd Toe |
Little or no affect with Diet / Exercise | Not related to Diet |
Has a genetic basis and Hormonal Influence | Can have a genetic basis but no relation with Hormones |
Worsened by Obesity | Worsened by Obesity |
Obesity might accompany Lipedema | Can be caused by Morbid Obesity |
Associated weakness of Lymphatic and Venous System | Blockage of Lymph Vessels causes Tissue Inflammation |
May affect multiple Family Members but can affect Sporadically | Usually occurs after Cancer treatment but can be Congenital (Spontaneous) |
Fat deposits can be tender | Often associated with severe Infections frequently |
May result in Walking / Gait abnormality and Skeletal issues over time | Should be treated by a Lymphedema Specialist (Vascular / Plastic Surgeon) |
Over time may develop Lymphedema as well, especially in the Lower Limbs
| Can be treated effectively by a combination of Conservative methods and Surgical methods for best outcome |
May benefit from treatment from a Lymphedema Specialist | |
Removal of the abnormal Fat protecting the Lymphatics is a good option |
Have Any Question?
Lipedema is a condition that causes excess fat to accumulate in the lower part of the body.
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