Understanding Lipoedema
Lipoedema is a chronic inflammatory condition involving abnormal fat distribution, most commonly affecting the legs and sometimes the arms. It often occurs symmetrically and may be associated with heaviness, tenderness, easy bruising, swelling and discomfort.
Many patients with lipoedema describe symptoms that can significantly affect comfort, mobility and quality of life, although severity can vary considerably between individuals.
At Better Viens Clinic, Dr Nicholas Teo provides doctor-led assessment of swelling, venous and lymphatic conditions including lipoedema on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Toowoomba.
What Is Lipoedema?
Lipoedema is a chronic condition characterised by disproportionate fat accumulation, typically affecting the hips, buttocks and legs.
The exact cause of lipoedema is not fully understood, although hormonal and genetic factors are thought to play a role.
Lipoedema most commonly affects women and may become more noticeable during periods of hormonal change such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause.
Symptoms and clinical appearance can vary significantly from person to person.
Common Symptoms of Lipoedema
Symptoms may include:
- Symmetrical enlargement of the legs
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Tenderness or discomfort
- Easy bruising
- Swelling that may worsen throughout the day
- Difficulty with clothing fit
- Reduced mobility or exercise tolerance
- Fatigue or leg discomfort
Some patients may also experience swelling involving the arms.
Lipoedema, Veins & The Lymphatic System
Lipoedema may coexist with other conditions that contribute to swelling and leg symptoms.
In some patients, underlying venous insufficiency or varicose veins may contribute to worsening heaviness, swelling or discomfort. Chronic venous insufficiency may also place additional strain on the lymphatic system over time.
Some patients with longstanding lipoedema may also develop secondary lymphatic dysfunction or overlapping lymphoedema.
Because multiple conditions may contribute to symptoms simultaneously, a comprehensive assessment is important in understanding the broader clinical picture.
Conditions that may overlap with lipoedema include:
- Varicose veins
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Lymphoedema
- Fluid retention from other medical causes
- Reduced mobility and chronic swelling
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Assessment of Lipoedema
Assessment begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination.
Depending on symptoms and clinical findings, assessment may include:
- Evaluation of swelling and fat distribution patterns
- Assessment of tenderness, heaviness and tissue changes
- Ultrasound assessment of the veins and surrounding tissues where appropriate
- Evaluation for underlying venous insufficiency or varicose veins
- Consideration of lymphatic and other contributing medical factors
Because symptoms and overlap with other conditions can vary significantly, assessment focuses on developing a more complete understanding of the contributing factors affecting each individual patient.
Management Approaches
Management depends on symptoms, severity and the presence of overlapping venous or lymphatic conditions.
Approaches may include:
Conservative & Supportive Management
- Compression therapy and compression garments
- Exercise and movement
- Walking and calf muscle activation
- Weight and lifestyle optimisation where appropriate
- Swelling management strategies
- Skin care and tissue support
- Referral to allied health providers where appropriate
Venous Assessment & Treatment Where Appropriate
In some patients, underlying venous insufficiency or varicose veins may contribute to worsening swelling, heaviness or discomfort.
Where clinically appropriate, treatment of venous reflux may form part of a broader management approach.
Treatment recommendations are individualised based on symptoms, examination findings and ultrasound assessment.
When Should You Seek Assessment?
Medical review may be appropriate if you experience:
- Persistent leg heaviness or enlargement
- Tender or painful legs
- Easy bruising
- Swelling that worsens throughout the day
- Difficulty with mobility or exercise
- Symptoms associated with varicose veins or swelling
- Ongoing discomfort affecting quality of life
Sudden swelling, chest pain or shortness of breath should be assessed urgently.
A Comprehensive Approach to Swelling Assessment
At Better Veins Clinic, assessments focus on understanding the broader contributors to swelling through a comprehensive and holistic approach.
This includes consideration of venous circulation, swelling patterns, tissue changes and potential overlapping venous or lymphatic factors where appropriate.
Clinics are available on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Toowoomba.