For mothers who suffer from this condition, the impacts to your health can increase after each pregnancy and cause additional pain that if left untreated, could lead to secondary health problems such as mobility issues and lymphedema.
Some mothers who do suffer from the condition feel as though they are trapped and are living in a pear shaped body ‘fat suit’.
What is Lipodema?
Lipodema (also known as Lipedema or Lipoedema) is a condition that almost exclusively affects women. It is a genetic condition that affects the tissue in your limbs. People who suffer from the condition have an abnormal build-up of fat cells in the legs and thighs; which is progressive in making the legs become enlarged.
The development of Lipodema is thought to be associated with hormonal disorders and usually starts from the hips and affects the body all the way down to the ankles.
Unfortunately, the condition almost exclusively affects women. This is why it is important for the millions of women and mothers need to become informed and aware of the risks of Lipodema to avoid the pain and distress from suffering from this condition.
The common error of misdiagnosis with Lipodema
Lipodema can develop during puberty, but is usually diagnosed in women over the age of 35. It can be frustrating for women who are suffering from the symptoms, but are completely unaware that they are suffering from the condition.
Friends and family may think that they are just gaining more weight without taking exercise and a healthy diet seriously. And whilst this may be the case for some women, there are a percentage of women that suffer from Lipodema for years completely unaware. The fat on their body continues to build.
If you suspect that you have been suffering from similar symptoms, arrange a consultation to see a Lipodema specialist to get the right diagnosis. Unfortunately, there is an increased risk of suffering from Lipodema after pregnancy.
Are there any treatments or cures available?
The only real treatment that you can have is liposuction. You can find specialists and clinics that can perform the procedures to remove the fat in your local area.
What impacts can this condition have on your life?
People who are suffering from the condition are affected both physically and emotionally. It can make you suffer both physically and emotionally.
Lipedema is a painful fat disorder and if left untreated can cause multiple secondary health problems, to include mobility issues and lymphedema. Don’t let Lipodema impact the quality of your life.
Look out for your daughters!
This condition tends to be hereditary. If you suspect or know that you are suffering from the condition, inform your daughter about any symptoms that she should look out for to identify and isolate the condition as early as possible.
Are there support groups for women who are suffering from Lipodema?
If you need to reach out to others for support, you can connect with people on Facebook groups who are located in your country or that could help point you in the right direction to medical experts, medical clinics or associations that may be able to assist you.
