Pain in the Affected Area
Besides shape disproportions (a narrow waist and larger hips and thighs), painful sensations in the affected area are typical symptoms of lipedema. The reason why lipedema causes pain is not entirely understood.
Besides shape disproportions (a narrow waist and larger hips and thighs), painful sensations in the affected area are typical symptoms of lipedema. The reason why lipedema causes pain is not entirely understood.
Experts explain that inflammation and a lack of oxygen (hypoxia) are the most likely reasons for your pain. Both are a consequence of the buildup of fatty tissue in your legs or arms. Besides, chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can affect your lipedema symptoms, especially the perception of pain and vice versa: pain can lead to chronic distress. Chronic stress may also cause inflammation, and in the end, a vicious cycle develops.
The buildup of fatty tissue leads to the release of specific hormones, called adipokines. This causes inflammation and a lack of oxygen. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression affect the sensation of pain (and vice versa) and can cause inflammation as well.
Therefore, psychological support has become an important element in the treatment of lipedema. It can help you to cope with a long-term disease such as lipedema and improve your symptoms, including pain.