Do you know what lipedema is?

Lipema is an accumulation of abnormal subcutaneous fat in some body areas, often confused with obesity. It differs from obesity because it is a disproportionate accumulation of fat in the extremities, mainly in the legs and thighs, but it can also affect the arms. Unfortunately, it is still a little-known disease, often confused with obesity.

Approximately 10% of women worldwide suffer from lipedema. This condition usually appears after puberty but can occur after menopause or pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Although the cause is unknown, it is suggested that hormonal, vascular, and lymphatic factors are related to this disease.

Although it is already a disease recognized by the World Health Organization, the diagnosis is still late due to the lack of knowledge of health professionals, who often close the diagnosis to obesity.

The main symptoms are a feeling of heaviness at the site of fat accumulation, capillary fragility tending to form bruises quickly, and pain in the region when touched when moving and during physical activity, which progressively worsens and can cause permanent damage to the circulatory system and lymphatic.

There is still a long way to go for the early diagnosis of this disease, reducing complications, and improving treatment effectiveness, but physical activity and healthy eating are essential.

Source:https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/984266?src=wnl_recnlnew1_ous_221121_MSCPEDIT_&uac=189755PX&impID=4894634