Obesity and lipedema are two different health conditions that are often confused because both are associated with excessive fat accumulation in the body. But the causes and symptoms differ considerably. The question “Obesity or lipedema?” is extremely important because the two conditions require different treatments. In the case of obesity, a change in diet, medication and, if necessary, weight loss surgery can help. In the case of lipedema, the symptoms can only be alleviated or eliminated by wearing compression pants permanently or by liposuction.
What is obesity?
Overweight, also known as obesity, is a chronic nutritional and metabolic disease characterized by an excessive accumulation of fat in the body. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Obesity can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and behavioral factors. However, an important role is also played by a high-calorie diet and a lack of exercise.
Symptoms and consequences:
- Excessive body weight
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and certain types of cancer
- Joint problems and breathing difficulties
Treatment:
- Dietary change and exercise
- Behavioral therapy
- Drug treatment
- Surgical procedures such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass
What is lipedema?
Lipedema is a chronic fat distribution disorder that affects almost exclusively women. It is characterized by a symmetrical increase in subcutaneous fat, mainly on the legs and arms. Unlike obesity, lipedema is not caused by general weight gain, but by abnormal fat distribution, which is often associated with pain and swelling. Typically, lipedema begins with an increase in subcutaneous fat, especially in the buttocks and hips. The result is the so-called saddlebags. Later, the lipedema spreads to the knees. There is increased fat formation on the inside of the knees. The disease then spreads from the hips to the ankles. The feet are not affected. As the disease progresses, lipedema also affects the arms. Wrists and hands are not affected.
Symptoms and consequences:
- Symmetrical fat accumulation on legs and arms
- Pressure sensitivity and pain
- Tendency to bruise
- Heaviness and tension in the affected areas
- Weight loss, e.g. through dieting, has no significant effect on the symptoms.
Treatment:
- Compression therapy
- Manual lymphatic drainage
- Physiotherapy
- If there is insufficient improvement: liposuction
Summary
The main difference that best shows what the cause is, is the pain. Even if weight loss has no effect on the appearance and symptoms, this suggests lipedema. However, lipoedema can also occur in conjunction with obesity. Often, a treatment is then necessary that includes elements for both conditions: nutrition therapy and, if necessary, weight loss surgery for massive obesity and also compression therapy and, if necessary, liposuction to treat the lipoedema.
